“Categories to Analyze Sand Trays” — Investigation of the Relationship with Age, Gender, and Symptoms

Daiki Kimura, PhD; Yurika Chiba, PhD; Motoshi Yamasaki, MA; Saori Fuwa, PhD; Naoya Osawa, MA; Jun-ichi Kobatake, MA

Abstract

This study aimed to examine the relationship between characteristics of sand trays (sandplay scenes) and gender, age, and symptoms using the “Categories to Analyze Sand Trays.” 29 categories were developed from 646 sand tray pictures of 77 published Japanese cases, using a structured approach. The results revealed the following patterns: boys depicted more aggressive and chaotic themes, whereas girls portrayed more structured and relational sandplay scenes. Additionally, variations in sand tray complexity and themes were evident across different ages, indicating developmental changes. Lastly, the findings are applied to the therapeutic assessment of four psychological conditions (i.e., school refusal, psychosomatic symptoms, tic disorder, and selective mutism). This supports the structured use of sand tray analysis to explore underlying emotional and developmental issues, validating the usefulness of the categories in clinical settings.

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