Structural Elements of Games
Interactive Patterns


Within each game, specific interactive processes are inherent or can be superimposed upon the game. There are eight patterns identifiable at this time. This process limits, influences, or regulates the behavior of persons playing the game. Each pattern appears to be a normal means of interacting at different stages of life. Apparently one masters a pattern, includes it in his behavioral repertoire, and then attempts to master another pattern. The patterns may be developmental in nature: that is, there may be a sequence involving mastery - one must learn a specific pattern and master it before attempting to meet with success in a subsequent pattern.

PATTERNDEFINITION EXAMPLE
Intra-Individual

Action taking place within the mind of a person or action involving the mind and a part of the body, but requiring no contact with another person or external object.

Pillow Puzzles

Finger Flexion Tricks

Extra Individual

Action directed by a person toward an object in the environment, requiring no contact with another person.

Jigsaw Puzzles

Solitaire Card Game

Aggregate

Action directed by a person toward an object in the environment while in the company of other persons who are also directing action toward objects in the environment. Action is not directed toward one another, and no interaction between participants is required or necessary.

Bingo

Roulette

Inter Individual

Action of a competitive nature directed by one person toward another.

Checkers

Tennis

Unilateral

Action of a competitive nature among three or more persons, one of whom is an antagonist or it. Interaction is in simultaneous competitive dyadic relationships

Tag

Dodge Ball

Multilaterial

Action of a competitive nature among three or more persons, with no one person as an antagonist.

Scrabble

Draw Poker

Intra Group

Action of a cooperative nature by two or more persons intent upon reaching a mutual goal. Action requires positive verbal and non-verbal interaction.

Cat's Cradle

Maori Sticks

Inter Group

Action of a competitive nature between two or more intra groups.

Soccer

Basketball

 

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Last update December 21, 2009