According to Surplus Energy Theory, why do individuals engage in play?

Surplus Energy Theory posits that individuals engage in play primarily to expend excess energy. This theory suggests that when individuals have an abundance of energy that is not being utilized for survival-related tasks, they often channel this surplus into playful behaviors. Play serves as an outlet for this excess energy, allowing individuals, especially children, to engage in vigorous activities that might otherwise not be necessary for their survival or day-to-day functioning.

The theory emphasizes the physiological aspect of energy levels and how those drive the need for play as a natural and instinctive way to release pent-up energy. This can manifest in various forms of play, from physical activities to imaginative scenarios, and aligns with the understanding of play as a fundamental aspect of development and personal well-being.

In contrast, while learning new skills, expressing emotions, and building relationships may also occur during play, they are not the primary reason for engaging in play according to this specific theoretical framework. These latter functions are often viewed through different lenses of play’s purposes and can be seen as secondary benefits rather than the foundational reason for why play occurs in the context of Surplus Energy Theory.