Play and playfulness for public health and wellbeing

The book "Playful Pursuit of Public Health" explores the role of play in human and animal development and its educational and therapeutic value. It advocates for a 'playful pursuit of public health' through the integration of evidence from parallel scientific and creative endeavors, addressing major public health concerns such as obesity, inactivity, loneliness, and mental health. Play is presented as vital to creating a new 'culture of health' across various environments and stages of life.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 214 pages
\n Publication date: 08 April 2019
\n Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd
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The significance of play in the development of humans and animals is widely recognized, and its educational and therapeutic benefits are extensively documented in the literature. This groundbreaking book takes the discussion on play to a new level by bringing together and analyzing various aspects of the play puzzle from the perspective of public health. It explores the interplay between art and science, which informs both play theory and public health policy, and advocates for a playful approach to achieving public health objectives through the integration of evidence from parallel scientific and creative endeavors.

Drawing on extensive international research evidence, the book addresses some of the most pressing public health concerns of our time, such as obesity, inactivity, loneliness, and mental health. It advocates for innovative solutions to address social disparities in health and well-being. Play is presented as a fundamental element in creating a new "culture of health," spanning from early childhood attachment to later stages of life, including the home, workplace, and various virtual and physical environments.

This book serves as a valuable resource for students, academics, practitioners, and policy-makers interested in play, health, the creative arts, and digital and environmental design. It provides a comprehensive understanding of the role of play in promoting health and well-being and offers practical insights for implementing playful practices in various contexts. By exploring the intersection of play and public health, this book contributes to the growing body of knowledge on the importance of creativity and innovation in addressing complex societal challenges.

\n Weight: 354g\n
Dimension: 231 x 173 x 13 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781138541689\n \n