Play fighting (rough-and-tumble play) in children: developmental and evolutionary perspectives

Play fighting and chasing in human children – often referred to as rough-and-tumble play, or RTP R&T is a common form of one that has the most obvious correspondence play many (especially mammalian) non-human species. Unlike object, pretend sociodramatic generally encouraged by teachers parents, viewed much more ambivalent way. The role it development, whether this should be positive negative light, continues debated. Here we review what insights may gained from research on species, main developmental trends humans, definitional measurement issues, cultural variations, empirical data correlates found with behaviors adaptive significance. We conclude some reflections theoretical issues future priorities. A consistent theme work parent–child RTP, peer-peer experience important for emotional control learning restraint competitive conflictual situations.