A brief guide to understanding PLAY: one of Motional's Social Engagement Subdomains and one of the systems identified by Jaak Panksepp during his forty-plus years of research into emotions. What is PLAY and why is it important?
PLAY is one of the subdomains in Motional. It refers to the PLAY system, one identified by Jaak Panksepp during his forty-plus years of research into emotions. It led to the development of what was later called "Affective Neuroscience".
PLAY refers to the neural circuits and associated brain regions that promote social play and rough-and-tumble behaviour in humans and animals. The PLAY system is associated with feelings of joy, enthusiasm, and humour. It is activated in response to playful social interactions and is located in the sub-cortical region of the brain.
Regarding neurobiology, the PLAY system is associated with the release of several different chemicals and neuropeptides, including endorphins, oxytocin, and dopamine:
- Endorphins are natural painkillers that are released during physical play.
- Oxytocin is a hormone released during social play associated with feelings of social bonding and trust.
- Dopamine is also involved in the PLAY system, as it is associated with feelings of pleasure and reward and is released during rewarding social interactions.
Why is PLAY important?
The implications of the PLAY system for developing children's emotional health are significant. Children can develop important social skills, including communication, cooperation, and empathy, by engaging in social play. Through play, children learn to regulate their emotions, manage stress, and build relationships with others.
In addition, social play has been linked to improved cognitive function, including increased attention, creativity, and problem-solving skills.
Teachers, Sencos, Alncos and Senior Leads in schools need to be aware of the role of the PLAY system in emotional development. Educators can support the development of social skills, emotional regulation, and cognitive function by providing opportunities for children to engage in social play, such as through structured games, group activities, and free play.
In addition, creating a positive and supportive learning environment that promotes social connection and emotional wellbeing can help to foster the development of the PLAY system and promote healthy social and emotional development in children.
Why is PLAY capitalised?
Jaak Panksepp established this convention. When PLAY is capitalised, it specifically points to a unique emotional system within the brain, distinguishing it from the common usage of the word 'play.'