Masekitlana : South African traditional play as a therapeutic tool in child psychotherapy

Abstract

In this article I address and explore the importance of the use of a South African indigenous game (masekitlana) in child psychotherapy. I take the reader on the journey of a child whose mother and grandmother were killed in front of him but who managed to overcome the resultant trauma after several sessions of playing masekitlana. The participant refused to play and be assessed with the standardised tests that were available but chose masekitlana, which requires only two small stones. Data were collected through a literature review, clinical interviews, and play narratives. The observations were noted. In the case study masekitlana played a significant role in assisting the participant to come to terms with the fears to which he was vulnerable. The effectiveness of masekitlana as a therapeutic tool in child psychotherapy is highlighted.