ABSTRACT
This chapter presents the meaning of themes, how to identify them, and how to use them in play therapy. It explores the difference between play behaviors and play themes. A play behavior is one that is acted out by children in the playroom to which a variation of meanings can be attributed. Play behaviors are what the child is actually doing in the room. A play theme is a coherent metaphor from which the child communicates the meaning he or she attributes to experience. There are three characteristics that are helpful in guiding the play therapist to identify play themes. They are repetition, intensity, and context. The main purpose of identifying themes is that they lead play therapists to a better understanding of the subjective experience of the child. Identification of themes can aid the play therapist in parent consultation by providing a useful tool in helping parents fully understand their children.
