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A Multidisciplinary Perspective on Adult Play and Playfulness

René T. Proyer

Oct 19, 2017

The editorial, "A Multidisciplinary Perspective on Adult Play and Playfulness" by René T. Proyer, introduces a special issue of the International Journal of Play that compiles various perspectives on the role of play and playfulness in adult life. Key highlights include:


  1. Evolutionary Perspective: Examines how playfulness in parents can foster adaptability in children, suggesting evolutionary benefits.



  2. Cultural Transmission: Investigates how playfulness is transmitted across cultures, comparing Chinese heritage women in the U.S. with lifelong American residents.



  3. Playful Learning in Higher Education: Proposes the 'magic circle' as a new paradigm for higher education that promotes intrinsic motivation and experimentation.



  4. Creativity in Teams: Demonstrates the positive effects of playful improvisational theatre on creativity within organizational teams.



  5. Urban Design: Discusses 'urban ludic interventions' that encourage playful interactions in urban environments, identifying 27 global examples.



  6. Strategic Games: Explores the presence of strategic games in unexpected cultural contexts and their societal implications.



  7. BDSM as Adult Play: Conceptualizes BDSM activities as a form of adult play, providing insights from self-identified practitioners.



  8. Play in Psychiatry: Reviews the role of play and humor in psychiatric contexts, highlighting potential therapeutic benefits.


The editorial emphasizes the need for more research on adult playfulness and its potential benefits, aiming to inspire further multidisciplinary studies.

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