2025-02-10 01:54 AM ET - Fox News

Study Shows Playfulness Enhances Resilience During COVID Pandemic

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This study highlights the importance of playfulness in building resilience during the COVID pandemic, showing that a positive outlook can enhance well-being amidst challenges.

New research has confirmed a common-sense conclusion -- those with a more positive outlook on life fared better during the COVID pandemic. Scientists found that adults with high levels of "playfulness" demonstrated stronger resilience during lockdowns compared to more serious individuals.

Study leader Xiangyou "Sharon" Shen of Oregon State University (OSU) emphasized that playfulness is an underappreciated resource for building resilience and maintaining well-being during difficult times. She stated, "Understanding how playful people navigate adversity can inform interventions and strategies to help people cope with stress and uncertainty."

Chronic stress is a significant public health concern linked to various health issues such as heart disease and anxiety. Dr. Marc Siegel, Fox News' senior medical analyst, highlighted that "playfulness and humor, along with love and happiness, can increase oxytocin in the brain, promoting overall health."

Shen and researcher Zoe Crawley conducted the study with over 500 U.S. adults, dividing them into two groups based on levels of playfulness. The more playful individuals shared similar perceptions of risk but exhibited greater optimism and creativity in problem-solving, promoting quality enjoyment in their daily activities.

Shen noted that "the highly playful" did not engage in different activities but experienced them with higher quality. They actively altered challenging situations and viewed obstacles as opportunities, effectively "making lemonade from lemons." She concluded that setting aside regular time for play is instrumental for well-being.