Work

Can Playfulness be Stimulated? A Randomised Placebo‐Controlled Online Playfulness Intervention Study on Effects on Trait Playfulness, Well‐Being, and Depression

Year: 2020

Type: article

Study designs: Randomized Controlled Trial, Clinical Trial

Abstract: BACKGROUND: While there are numerous applications of play-based interventions, there is little research on playfulness-based interventions. We applied interventions that aim at stimulating playfulness and test effects on happiness and depressive symptoms. METHOD: In a randomised placebo-controlled online intervention, N = 533 participants were assigned to one of three 1-week playfulness conditions (i.e. three playful things, using playfulness in a new way, and counting playfulness) or a placebo condition. Participants reported on global playfulness, facets of playfulness, well-being, and depression at pretest, posttest, and at follow-ups after 2, 4, and 12 weeks. RESULTS: All interventions increased expressions in all facets of playfulness, had short-term effects on well-being, and ameliorated depression. CONCLUSION: Overall, findings suggest that playfulness can be stimulated by short self-administered interventions.

Source: Applied Psychology Health and Well-Being

DOI: 10.1111/aphw.12220

Authors: René T. Proyer, Fabian Gander, Kay Brauer, Garry Chick

Institutions: Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, University of Zurich, Pennsylvania State University

Language: English

Topic: Psychological Well-being and Life Satisfaction

Subfield: Social Psychology

Field: Psychology

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,000