As an organisation dedicated to promoting the importance of playfulness in adulthood, the Playfulness Institute is always eager to explore research that sheds light on the ways in which playfulness contributes to human flourishing. A study by René T. Proyer and Willibald Ruch in 2011, titled “The virtuousness of adult playfulness: the relation of playfulness with strengths of character,” offers valuable insights into the connection between playfulness and positive psychological functioning.
The researchers examined adult playfulness using two different approaches: a global assessment of playfulness, reflecting the ease and frequency of engaging in playful experiences and activities, and a more nuanced approach that considered five distinct facets of playful behaviour (spontaneous, expressive, fun, creative, and silly). They then investigated how these aspects of playfulness related to the 24 character strengths outlined in the Values in Action (VIA) classification, a framework of positive traits that enable individuals to thrive.
The findings revealed that adult playfulness was most strongly associated with the character strengths of creativity, appreciation of beauty and excellence, and humour. Notably, humour emerged as the single best predictor of global playfulness, suggesting a significant overlap between these two constructs. However, the researchers emphasised that while playfulness and humour are closely related, they are not identical, with some forms of humour existing independently of play.
Other character strengths, such as teamwork, gratitude, and hope, also showed positive associations with playfulness, particularly with the fun and creative facets. Conversely, strengths related to restraint (e.g., prudence, self-regulation) were negatively correlated with playfulness, indicating that excessive self-control may hinder spontaneity and the generation of novel ideas.
The study also revealed that intellectual and emotional strengths were more strongly linked to playfulness than strengths related to temperance or interpersonal skills. This finding suggests that playfulness may serve as a catalyst for positive emotions and social bonding, as well as a facilitator of learning, creativity, and problem-solving in both personal and professional contexts.
For the Playfulness Institute, these findings reinforce the importance of our mission to promote adult playfulness as a pathway to well-being and resilience. By understanding the ways in which playfulness intersects with character strengths, we can develop targeted interventions and strategies to help individuals and organisations harness the power of play to enhance creativity, foster positive relationships, and build emotional resources.
While this study provides valuable insights, it also highlights the need for further research to explore the potential “dark sides” of playfulness, such as when playfulness and banter turn from laughing with others to laugh at others.
As we continue to engage with teams, organisations, and individuals, the Playfulness Institute remains committed to advancing our understanding of this complex and multifaceted construct, and to empowering others to embrace playfulness as a vital component of a fulfilling and flourishing life.
