The Role of Play Therapy in Supporting Emotional Health of Children in Muzaffarabad

Abstract

Childhood emotional and psychological well-being is crucial for overall development, yet many children struggle to express their emotions effectively, particularly in trauma-affected regions. This study examines the role of play therapy in supporting the emotional health of children in Muzaffarabad, a region that has experienced significant socio-political instability and the devastating earthquake and natural disaster like flood. Using a mixed-method research design, the study collected data from 30 children (ages 5-12), through surveys, interviews and case study. Findings from a paired sample t-test demonstrated significant improvements in children’s emotional regulation, with anxiety levels decreasing from a mean of 7.8 (pre-therapy) to 3.2 (post-therapy) (p = 0.001), while emotional expression and social interaction scores significantly increased (p < 0.05). The study also identified common emotional and behavioral challenges, including aggression (n=11), social withdrawal (n=8), anxiety (n=7), and post-traumatic stress symptoms (n=5), emphasizing the need for structured therapeutic interventions. Play therapy provided a safe, expressive environment for children to process emotions, enhance self-confidence, and develop coping mechanisms. However, accessibility barriers were identified, including limited trained therapists, lack of awareness among parents, and financial constraints, which hindered widespread adoption of therapy. The study recommends expanding therapist training programs, integrating school-based play therapy interventions, increasing awareness campaigns, and introducing subsidized therapy programs to enhance accessibility. Overall, the findings reinforce that play therapy is a highly effective intervention for improving children’s emotional health, particularly for trauma-affected populations. Addressing systemic barriers to therapy access will be crucial in ensuring long-term emotional resilience and psychological well-being for children in Muzaffarabad.