The Definition of Play: A Measurement Scale for Well-Being Based on Human Physiological Mechanisms

Abstract

Play is an activity common to all cultures and is thought to be a useful way to improve well-being since it brings about enjoyment. This study aimed to comprehensively define play and develop a method to evaluate what types of play lead to well-being. It defined play as “the activation of one’s reward system through intrinsically motivated decisions and actions of the self, not for the direct purpose of survival”, based on human physiology, including brain science relating to motivation and behaviour. It checked this definition by conducting an online survey and applying a measurement scale to quantify the degree of play. The results revealed that the favourite play activity involved a significantly higher degree of play than the highest-effort habits (defined as the activities that participants most disliked but continued to take part in). There was also a significant difference in intrinsic motivation, reward system activation, and decision-making but no difference in action of the self. This method made it possible to evaluate the intensity of each element of the brain mechanism making up play, and it can, therefore, be used to examine the well-being of groups, organisations, and individuals across domains.