Dr. Sergio Pellis is a Professor of Neuroscience at the University of Lethbridge and one of the world’s leading experts in the neurobiology of play.
In this episode, we discuss how play behavior across mammals relies on the same neural reward circuitry, the evolutionary origins and benefits of play, and how hormones contribute to sex differences in aggression, sexual, and play behavior. We also discuss connections between play across species and empathy, its impact on the development of social skills in children, and the impacts of social isolation on brain and cognitive development.
00:15 The Neuroscience of Play: A Historical Perspective
04:01 The Evolutionary Purpose of Play
06:37 The Role of Reward Systems in Play
15:36 The Developmental Stages of Play in Animals
27:20 The Social Functions of Play
34:29 The Neurobiology of Play and Its Impact on Brain Development
35:54 The Impact of Play on Brain Development
36:41 Exploring Sex Differences in Play
37:49 The Role of Hormones in Play Behavior
39:20 The Influence of Rearing Environment on Play
39:40 The Shift in Play Tactics at Puberty
41:23 The Complexity of Sex Differences in Play
45:14 The Impact of Social Isolation on Brain Development
46:26 The Importance of Play for Both Sexes
50:11 The Influence of Play on Executive Functions
01:00:30 The Role of Pheromones in Social Interactions
01:08:15 The Impact of Play Deprivation on Brain Development
01:10:05 The Psychological Training Aspect of Play
01:11:08 The Empathy Developed Through Animal Research