How can a child s environment be designed so that it really con-

tributes to his sound development? Precisely what is the impact of the

physical arrangements, the routines, the "atmosphere" that pervade a

place where children live? How should a child s play life be arranged

so that it is more than just a time-filler? How can overexcitement, flus-

tration, and overstimulation be toned down to support the youngster s

ability for self-control? How should opportunities for emotional expres-

sion through play and game activities be organized in order to promote

personality growth?

Controls from Within gives detailed answers to precisely such im-

portant questions. The book is concerned with the breakdown of behavior

controls in children. Emphasis is on techniques for its treatment. These

techniques help the child develop adequate self-control. Even while

describing the treatment picture in detail and with many illustrations, the

authors point out the implications for the handling of the child by

parents, teachers, and group leaders.

The authors suggest that much can be accomplished by treating chil-

dren s problems as they emerge in daily life, and that such "clinical

exploitation of life events" can sometimes be effective when verbal coun-

seling alone does not seem to produce results.