The Psychology of Fun by David Hennessy, Clinical Psychologist
The psychology of fun is a serious matter. There is a powerful link between playfulness and psychological well-being. As adults, it’s easy to become consumed by responsibilities, routines, and expectations. But nurturing our inner child — the part of us that thrives on curiosity, creativity, and joy — is not just an indulgence. It’s essential.
The Psychology of Fun and the Cost of Losing Playfulness
One of the most limiting aspects of adulthood in modern society is the tendency to take ourselves too seriously. The childlike part of ourselves — the playful, imaginative, and light-hearted self — is often dismissed as something to grow out of. But at what cost?
When we suppress that playful nature, we may find ourselves more stressed, rigid, and disconnected — not only from others but from ourselves.
Why Intentional Engagement in Light-hearted Play Matters
Balancing our serious, responsible adult self with our playful inner child can have transformative effects on both mental and physical health. Scientific evidence shows that reconnecting with playful, creative, and joyful activities can:
- Stimulate endorphin release
- Help regulate the autonomic nervous system
- Promote emotional resilience
- Encourage a sense of safety, peace, and compassion
- Support better social connection and self-esteem
Play is a natural form of mindfulness, and it provides a sense of freedom that helps us reset. Whether it’s dancing around the living room, building something with your hands, or enjoying spontaneous laughter, these moments can become powerful anchors for wellbeing.
“Unless we intervene in our own lives and intentionally take time out to nourish our inner child, we may be at risk of living a life that is far more serious than it needs to be.”
The Psychology of Playfulness
From a clinical psychology perspective, playfulness is more than just fun — it’s a key ingredient in emotional regulation, stress relief, and cognitive flexibility. Research shows that play activates areas of the brain associated with creativity, problem-solving, and social connection. It can help us process emotions, experiment safely with new behaviours, and shift out of rigid or anxious thinking patterns.
In therapy, encouraging a playful mindset can:
- Build rapport between therapist and client
- Foster openness to change
- Enhance engagement, especially for children and neurodivergent individuals
- Support trauma recovery by creating safe, joyful experiences in the body
Playfulness isn’t about avoiding seriousness — it’s about creating space for curiosity, spontaneity, and emotional ease, even in the midst of challenges.
The Psychology of Fun >Fun for Adults: A Forgotten Prescription
For adults, fun is often the first thing to go when life gets busy — but it should be one of the last. Fun isn’t just for kids; it plays a vital role in maintaining emotional wellbeing, reducing stress, and supporting mental clarity in adulthood.
Psychologically, fun engages the brain’s reward system, releasing dopamine and endorphins that improve mood, reduce tension, and promote a sense of vitality. When adults make time for fun — whether through social connection, creative hobbies, movement, or moments of silliness — they create space for:
- Relief from burnout and chronic stress
- Improved cognitive flexibility and problem-solving
- Stronger personal relationships and emotional intimacy
- Reconnection with parts of the self that feel energised and free
In therapy with adults, exploring what brings genuine enjoyment can be revealing. Many people have lost touch with what they find fun due to long-standing responsibilities, pressures, or emotional fatigue. Reclaiming fun isn’t frivolous — it’s a way to rediscover passion, restore balance, and reconnect with life.
Fun is not a distraction from being an adult — it’s a necessary part of being a healthy one.
