The Self-Concept Game

by Berthold Berg, Ph.D.  
 
Ages 8 through teen. The Self-Concept Game is an excellent tool to improve self-esteem. This appealing board game is an great way to engage—and treat—children who are too old for puppets and toys, but too young to express themselves readily in therapy. It improves self-esteem by giving children a clearer, more realistic picture of themselves in five areas: Scholastic Competence; Social Acceptance; Physical Appearance; Athletic Competence; and Behavioral Competence. It helps them discover their strengths and teaches them strategies for maintaining and enhancing self-esteem.

To focus discussion, you can choose appropriate game cards based on the child's responses to the Self-Concept Inventory and the Cognitive Orientation Inventory, both included in the game manual. Generally played by a therapist and one or more children, the game can also be used by parents or used in the classroom.