Problematic Play

I consider problematic play to be based on an imbalance of play. For example, if someone is limited in their play, whether it is confined to just inside or outside, only with a certain person or group, set to a defined list of activities, or some other overwhelming commonality. It is extremely important for children and adults alike to experience different kinds of play, and I find that a lack of variety in play experiences can really be stunting in one's creative and social growth. For example, someone who only spends free time alone may be less comfortable around others; someone who never goes outside lacks the playful experience humankind has when interacting with nature; and a little girl who only plays with dolls and other gendered toys may become confined to her given gender for the indefinite future. Variety and being pushed to try new things can only enrich play, and a lack of experimenting with play is a missed opportunity for growth and new appreciations for things and people that may be taken for granted otherwise. Play can be problematic when it is redundant and does not encourage expression in new, unfamiliar realms, and this is what happens, ultimtely, when one's play is confined and overly regulated.