How games influence the psychological and social development of children is examined. It is pointed out that the current emphasis on competition and winning at all costs is harmful and that competition is not instinctive but a learned response to society's expectations. Other cultures such as the Eskimo and Chinese are presented as examples of noncompetitive societies in which the children learn cooperative behavior. The violence and aggression in such sports as football, volleyball, soccer, and baseball are deplored, and alternative games are described. (JD)