title: Floorplans and cartoon strips--diagnostic techniques in working with children.
abstract: Two useful techniques in assessing and treating children ages 7-15 are described. Children are asked to draw a floorplan of their home. Drawing the floorplan reveals the child's ability to approach a task; some of the preferred activities in the home; the sleeping arrangements; and, most importantly, other significant people. With some children, constructing a comic strip can reveal their core conflicts and establish rapport. The comic strip is particularly useful with children who are very inhibited in their verbal utterances.
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000342:Affective Symptoms / Q000175:diagnosis*; D002648:Child; D005191:Family Characteristics; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007398:Interpersonal Relations; D008297:Male; D011369:Professional-Patient Relations; D011386:Projective Techniques; D012111:Residence Characteristics; D014705:Verbal Behavior; D014925:Wit and Humor as Topic