What observation did Tisza, Hurwitz, and Agnoff (1970) make regarding preschool children during hospitalization?

Tisza, Hurwitz, and Agnoff (1970) observed that preschool children tended to abandon play during the initial phase of hospitalization. This phenomenon can be understood in the context of hospitalization, where the environment can be unfamiliar and intimidating for young children. The stress associated with being in a hospital setting—such as procedures, separation from parents, and the presence of medical personnel—can lead to a regression in coping mechanisms, such as play. Play is crucial for preschool children as it helps them process their experiences and emotions. When faced with the stressors of hospitalization, their instinct may be to withdraw from play, reflecting a potential struggle to adapt to the new and challenging situation they are experiencing. Recognizing this behavior can inform child life specialists and healthcare providers on how to better support hospitalized children by introducing play at appropriate times to help them cope with their environment and feelings.