“Playing the Dozens”: Its History and Psychological Significance

Abstract

“Playing the dozens” is a verbal game common among young adolescents, especially those from low-income groups and ethnic minorities. Verbal games such as “the dozens” help to establish communication and understanding between ethnic groups when the players know and follow the rules of the game. While “the dozens” may be practiced in different forms within cultural groups, its use across cultures helps to diffuse pressures and stresses among youth.