Play Is the Highest Form of Research – Albert Einstein? Neville V. Scarfe? Anonymous
What does it mean to you to be playful? In general, what is your definition of play and playfulness?
We posed these questions to over 2,000 survey respondents. Over two years of controlled qualitative thematic analysis was spent on 800 answers. We identified “modern” language meanings and a contemporary definition of play and playfulness for adults — by adults.
Five core (abbreviated) themes have been identified:
This is important because understanding the personal meaning of play and playfulness is key to inspiring others to engage in this daily habit, which supports well-being for everyone.
We’re not big on bragging. We don’t feel comfortable in the spotlight, however, it’s time to share one of our published papers with you, our friends and like-minded members emerging in the Tribe of Adult Play and Playfulness.
Adult play and playfulness: A qualitative exploration of its meanings and importance
We could not have accomplished ANY of this without significant insights and leadership from Leslie Frazier, PhD; Florida International University, and the ongoing support of members of her Health and Development Lab who have participated in the Play Lab . Also, a special “shout out” to Chris Clifford Data Scientist/Research & Analysis Expert and “Minnie” Qiyang Lin, Ph.D. candidate in Educational Psychology & Educational Technology. Both — original members of the play lab — have stuck with us and our research way beyond our expectations. Without their expertise and knowledge this paper would not have come about.
Needless to say, we’ve learned a great deal. Several of our “gut” insights have been illuminated and reinforced. To be clear this is but one mental model to explore the meaning of play. It’s a building block. There will be more but for now, the entire process pushed us to continue learning which we love and find playful!
Practice Playfulness 