An Essay on the Importance of Defining Playfulness: Engendering Playfulness in Caregivers as a State, Trait, and Skill
Date of Award
6-2014
Document Type
Undergraduate Capstone Project
Degree Name
Psy.D.
Organizational Unit
Graduate School of Professional Psychology
First Advisor
Judith E. Fox
Second Advisor
Hale Marti
Third Advisor
Jaqueline Schwartz
Keywords
Playfulness, State, Trait, Skill
Abstract
It appears to be well established that play is extremely important. A great deal of research has been dedicated to understanding the effects and function of play, yet there appears to be significant disagreement about the definition of playfulness. In this article, the author outlines the varying research arguing for playfulness to be defined as a state, a trait and a skill. Additionally, the author addresses the implications that such definitions have in the clinical setting. It is asserted that only through understanding, assessing and intervening in each of the three dimensions of playfulness can a clinician engender caregivers to be more playful with their children. Strategies that clinicians can use to assess and provide interventions in each of the three dimensions are proposed.
Publication Statement
Copyright is held by the author. Permanently suppressed.
Extent
31 pages
Recommended Citation
Sward, Ashley, "An Essay on the Importance of Defining Playfulness: Engendering Playfulness in Caregivers as a State, Trait, and Skill" (2014). Graduate School of Professional Psychology: Doctoral Papers and Masters Projects. 50.
https://digitalcommons.du.edu/capstone_masters/50