| Abstract: | Examined play from conceptual and empirical viewpoints to clarify its importance in development. Distinctions are made between the play of presymbolic and symbolic organisms and between play, exploration, and "application." A review of play in nonhuman animals indicates that play increases with phylogenetic status, is important for mature social development in more advanced species, reflects intentional activity, and is essential for the development of tool-using strategies. An exploration–play–application sequence is posited to help clarify the embedded role of play in the development of adaptive strategies. (64 ref) (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved) |
