Playfulness: Its Relationship to Imagination and Creativity focuses on a discussion of the play element in play. This book discusses the differentiation between play and exploratory behavior based on familiar versus novel aspects in the factual givens. Organized into seven chapters, this book begins with an overview of the role of play, imagination, and creativity in psychological research. This text then examines the theoretical model that indicates the role of playfulness in affective, cognitive, and social functioning, and particularly relates these links to creativity and imagination. Other chapters consider playfulness as behavior at later stages of development. This book discusses as well some of the variables considered in relation to playfulness, including sex differences, social class, and level of intelligence. This book is intended to be suitable for professionals and advanced students in a number of disciplines. Developmental and educational psychologists as well as educators will also find this book useful.

Examines the role of playfulness in animal and human development, highlighting its links to creativity and, in turn, to innovation.

A Playful Path, the new book by games guru and fun theorist Bernard De Koven, serves as a collection of ideas and tools to help us bring our playfulness back into the open. When we find ourselves forgetting the life of the game or the game of life, the joy of form or the content, the play of brain or mind, body or spirit, this book can help us return to that which our soul is heir.

Appearing nearly forty years after the last significant text on the topic, this book brings the psychoanalytic theory on play truly up to date and elucidates its significance for clinical work with the help of illustrative clinical vignettes.

"Embark on a whimsical journey towards a more joyful existence with 'How to Enjoy Life by Being Silly: A Guide to Embracing Playfulness and Imperfection' by Ranjot Singh Chahal. In a world often weighed down by seriousness, Chahal invites readers to rediscover the lost art of silliness. Through a series of delightful chapters, he shares insights and practical advice on infusing every moment with laughter and light-heartedness. From learning to laugh at oneself to embracing the beauty of imperfection, each chapter is a treasure trove of playful wisdom. Dive into the magic of silly conversations, unleash your inner goofball, and celebrate the absurdities of life with Chahal as your guide. With 'How to Enjoy Life by Being Silly,' you'll learn to cultivate a childlike wonder that brings joy to even the most mundane of tasks. So, if you're ready to trade stress for smiles and seriousness for silliness, this book is your roadmap to a more vibrant, playful, and fulfilling life."

Appearing nearly forty years after the last significant text on the topic, this book brings the psychoanalytic theory on play truly up to date and elucidates its significance for clinical work with the help of illustrative clinical vignettes.

Stop negative thoughts, assuage anxiety, and live in the moment with these fun, easy games from improv expert Clay Drinko. If you’ve been feeling lost lately, you’re not alone! Even before the Covid-19 pandemic, Americans were experiencing record levels of loneliness and anxiety. And in our current political turmoil, it’s safe to say that people are looking for new tools to help them feel more present, positive, and in sync with the world. So what better way to get there than play? In Play Your Way Sane, Dr. Clay Drinko offers 120 low-key, accessible activities that draw on the popular principles of improv comedy to help you tackle your everyday stress and reconnect with the people around you. Divided into twelve fun sections, including “Killing Debbie Downer” and “Thou Shalt Not Be Judgy,” the games emphasize openness, reciprocation, and active listening as the keys to a mindful and satisfying life. Whether you’re looking to improve your personal relationships, find new meaning at work, or just survive our trying times, Play Your Way Sane offers serious self-help with a side of Second City sass.