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The Psychiatrist

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Man speaking in code as The Psychiatrist

The Psychiatrist

Clever ‘what’s-the-key’ exercise that may drive you crazy.

  • Very playful & fun
  • Suits all group sizes
  • Inspires creativity
  • Promotes critical thinking
  • Virtual option

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Announce the context of the game is to challenge one person (a volunteer) to ask a series of questions in an attempt to identify a secret ‘rule.’
  2. Ask a volunteer (the ‘psychiatrist’) to leave the room so that they can not hear the discussion of the rest of the group.
  3. Instruct your group to decide on a specific rule to follow when answering questions, eg all responses must start with a vowel.
  4. When ready, the psychiatrist re-enters the room and will start asking a series of questions, one person at a time.
  5. Instruct the psychiatrist to listen carefully to every response in an effort to identify one consistent rule that applies to all responses.
  6. Allow several minutes of questions and answers.
  7. If you note that the psychiatrist is losing enthusiasm or interest, gently guide them towards a solution.
  8. The game continues until the psychiatrist identifies the rule.
  9. Invite a new volunteer to be the next psychiatrist to start a new round.

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Contributor

Add your Comments...

Have you played this activity? What worked, what didn't work? What type of group? Do you have useful advice for other users? Do you know a fun variation?

Comments (1)

  1. David Piang-Nee

    Like the puzzle solving aspect of this activity. Has aspects of the Story Game and Instigator, (two other great activities) where the person who is it has to figure out the key.

    Love the aspect that the group creates a key each time and that this is also something that can be done online too. Great for people who love to figure out puzzles and get to engage the brain more.

    Reply

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