"The children's feedback game": an approach for modifying disruptive group behavior

Adult leaders of groups for children are almost invariably confronted with the problem of disruptive child behavior. Although these adults are usually able to effect at least some level of child compliance, the achievement of such compliance often demands a considerable expenditure of time and forces the leader and children into an adversary relationship. An alternative approach toward disruptive group behavior avoids some of these difficulties by engaging the children themselves as agents of change. The "Children's Feedback Game" provides a mechanism for implementing peer-group modification of undesirable behavior. The game uses an incentive system to teach the children to give and to receive both positive and negative feedback. As these interpersonal skills are developed, group supportiveness and cooperation are enhanced and other group goals are more easily met. The game can be readily adapted to a variety of clinical and teaching situations that involve a group of children.