Dibs: In Search of Self

In 1947, Virginia M. Axline introduced Nondirective Play Therapy to professional psychotherapists. Dibs, published in 1964, presents the case of a silent, withdrawn child whom parents and teachers struggle to reach. He hides under tables, lashes out at other children, and some believe he cannot learn or function in a regular classroom or that he is emotionally disturbed. Miss A, Dibs' therapist, takes a different approach. She believes Dibs already possesses the answers and can communicate his needs through play if given patience, acceptance, and careful observation. Skeptical at first, Dibs' mother eventually allows Miss A to work with him using her methods. Miss A introduces Dibs to a special play room where children can be themselves freely. Through the therapeutic relationship formed in this safe space, the book demonstrates Axline's philosophy of allowing children to "play out these feelings" and discover their own inner strength. The account follows Axline's work as therapist and advocate across multiple settings—the playroom, classroom observations, and parent consultations—documenting Dibs' therapeutic journey.