This activity is based on the literature on a parenting technique called distancing. This technique involves caregivers questioning and challenging a child’s viewpoint (versus explicitly explaining logic in induction), thereby promoting consideration of alternative explanations (Peterson & Skevington, 1988). The Maybe Game is set up to promote consideration of multiple explanations for various behaviors that may at first seem irrational or even aggressive. The facilitator demonstrates or reads various scenarios and then asks the participants to state a variety of explanations for the behavior. Explanations include both a feeling and a thought/motivation. Scenarios presented in the first few sessions are less emotionally charged and, hence, participants should find it easier at first to consider alternative explanations. In later sessions, the scenarios presented may more closely resemble those that the youths experience themselves, and the facilitator may need to use distancing more frequently.

 

To promote engagement and group cohesion, the facilitator can challenge the group to come up with a particular number of explanations within a limited time frame – e.g. “You have 20 seconds to come up with 10 explanations for why I just did what I did. Ready, set, go!”

 

Click here for instructions for the Maybe Game.