engleski

Do Adults Play?

Aims: The goal of this study was to provide deeper insight into play behaviour of adults and its possible association with well-being. The specific aims were (1) To analyse frequency of engagement in different types of play, and to test for gender differences (2) To analyse association between play and well-being indicators (3) To analyse playmates and association between playmate and well-being indicators. Method: Research was conducted online, on 407 adult citizens of Croatia of average age 26.3 years (67% male). We assessed general happiness, flourishing, frequency of different play activities and usual playmates. Results: Results showed that over two thirds of participants engage in a certain play activity at least once per week. The most popular play activities were sports and play with pets, while the least popular were mind sports. On average participants engaged in seven different play activities, but in most of them they engaged on irregular bases, few times per year. There were no differences between men and women in frequency or diversity of play, but women played more creative games, while men played more card games, sports and chess. Higher flourishing scores were related to higher frequency of playing party games, while higher general happiness was related to higher total frequency of playing and playing more problem solving, creative or sport games. Participants who typically played with either romantic partner or children showed higher ratings at both happiness and flourishing. Conclusion: Most of adults engage in play activities on regular, at least weekly bases. Playing in adults should be encouraged as it is related to well-being, especially if one plays with children or romantic partner.

Play ; Games ; Well-being ; Playmate ; Adults

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