Cooperative games: a way to modify aggressive and cooperative behaviors in young children

J Appl Behav Anal. 1994 Fall;27(3):435-46. doi: 10.1901/jaba.1994.27-435.

Abstract

We investigated the effects of competitive and cooperative games on aggressive and cooperative behaviors of 70 children (4 to 5 years old) from four classes in three preschools. The experimental design included both multiple baseline and reversal components. Behaviors were measured during game conditions and in subsequent free-play periods. Results showed that cooperative behavior increased and aggression decreased during cooperative games; conversely, competitive games were followed by increases in aggressive behavior and decreases in cooperative behavior. Similar effects were also found during free-play periods.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study

MeSH terms

  • Aggression / psychology*
  • Behavior Therapy / methods*
  • Child, Preschool
  • Competitive Behavior
  • Cooperative Behavior
  • Humans
  • Play and Playthings*
  • Reproducibility of Results
  • Social Behavior