Pros & Cons of Competitive Children's Games

Many activities in the lives of children are competitive, but this norm is being questioned. Psychologists, educators and parents struggle to understand the effects of competition on kids.

  1. Benefits for Skill Development

    • Competitive games help children excel in several ways. According to Dr. Cynthia Johnson, a human development specialist, competition spurs children to learn rules, improve skills and develop confidence.

    Effects on Social Skills

    • Marilyn Lopes, family life education specialist at University of Massachusetts, believes that competitions can push some children to higher levels of performance and help them gain confidence. On the other hand, competition sometimes causes children to adopt a self-centered attitude and decreases their consideration of others.

    Emotional Outcomes

    • Lopes indicates that competition adds a dimension of excitement to games. It also yields feelings of satisfaction, which build self-esteem. Dr. Johnson notes that competitive games can cause emotional injury to the losers, undermining self-confidence. It also can shift the focus from improving performance to winning at all costs.

    Effects on Peer Relationships

    • Competitive games can build teamwork and help children learn to work together. Conversely, a child who is overly competitive may annoy and anger peers.

    Expert Insight

    • Teamwork!

      Dr. Johnson and Ms. Lopes agree that children should be older to enjoy competitive games. Dr. John Tauer, author for "Psychology Today," feels that team competition is healthier than individual because it allows for teamwork and cooperation.

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