By Danny W. Pettry II, M Ed, M S., LPC, NCC, CTRS-BHS
Note: this article can be helpful for those rec therapists who provide services for teens.
In today’s world, teens face many challenges when it comes to dating. One unique way to learn about someone’s character is through card games. Though these games seem simple, they can tell us a lot about a person’s values and behaviors, helping teens make better choices in dating.
What Can Card Games Teach Us?
1. Cheating and Integrity: When playing cards, you can tell if someone cheats. A person who doesn’t play fair might struggle with honesty in relationships.
2. Problem-Solving: Games like Go Fish require players to think quickly. Observing how someone handles decisions can show their ability to solve problems, which is important in any relationship.
3. Sportsmanship: How people react to winning or losing reveals their sportsmanship. Someone who handles loss gracefully is usually respectful in other areas of life too.
4. **Emotional Control: Card games can be unpredictable! By watching how someone reacts to surprises or disappointments, you can learn if they manage their emotions well, which is important in dating.
Why Playing Cards Matters
Playing card games helps teens build social skills and have fun with friends. It encourages talking and teamwork, which are both important in dating.
So, the next time you and your friends hang out, consider playing a card game. It’s a fun way to learn more about yourself and others, and it might just help you choose better partners in the future!