| Sumario: | The article focuses on a novel approach to play therapy in treating childhood behavioral disorders, specifically oppositional defiant disorder (ODD). It presents a case study of Joel, a 12-year-old boy with ODD, whose treatment involved allowing him to control the rules of play, which facilitated his social functioning and conflict resolution skills. ODD is characterized by resistant and defiant behavior toward authority figures and affects 3-8% of youth, predominantly boys, with potential progression to more severe disorders if untreated. Play therapy, involving active engagement through play to address cognitive and social challenges, has demonstrated efficacy in reducing ODD symptoms and improving psychological functioning. This child-directed, flexible play therapy approach may enhance therapeutic alliance and empower children to manage their behavior and social interactions more effectively.
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