Synopsis

Published in 2023, this review article in Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews explores the evolutionary and biological underpinnings of father-child rough-and-tumble play (RTP) in humans. Authors Daniel Paquette and Jennifer M. StGeorge synthesize insights from mammalian peer-play behaviors, paternal endocrinology across species, and the activation relationship theory to argue that this form of play serves an adaptive role in fostering openness to the world through risk-taking and social cooperation.

• RTP is a widespread behavior among mammals, including humans, shaped by both evolutionary and cultural influences.
• Father-child RTP differs from peer RTP by emphasizing a parental function of “opening to the world,” promoting tolerance, unpredictability, and adaptive risk-taking.
• Paternal hormone profiles show greater variability across species than maternal ones, reflecting evolutionary adaptations to diverse environmental demands in child-rearing.
• This play style highlights human social systems built on cooperation and emotional regulation, with potential benefits for child development in social and exploratory skills.

The Study

Here’s the whole study:

Citation

Storli R. Children’s Rough-and-Tumble Play in a Supportive Early Childhood Education and Care Environment. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2021 Oct 5;18(19):10469. doi: 10.3390/ijerph181910469. PMID: 34639773; PMCID: PMC8507902.

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