Is it normal to still play pretend as an adult?

Yes, it is normal for adults to engage in pretend play, though it may look different from childhood pretend play. This type of imaginative play is not only a natural form of creative expression but also has benefits for mental health and emotional well-being. Here's why it's perfectly okay, and even beneficial, for adults to still enjoy pretend play:

1. Creativity and Stress Relief

Engaging in pretend play, whether through role-playing, gaming, or creative storytelling, allows adults to tap into their imagination and relieve stress. It offers an escape from the pressures of everyday life and provides a space for relaxation and fun. Much like adults engage in hobbies like painting or writing, pretend play can be an enjoyable and fulfilling way to express creativity.

2. Role-Playing and Personal Growth

For some adults, pretend play takes the form of role-playing games (RPGs), such as Dungeons & Dragons or video games that involve character creation and narratives. These activities allow players to step into different personas, which can help explore various aspects of their personality, desires, or even practice empathy by seeing the world from another character's perspective.

3. Bonding and Social Connection

Pretend play isn't limited to solitary activity—many adults enjoy group role-playing games, cosplay, or storytelling with others. This fosters connection, teamwork, and social bonding. Many adult communities gather to play games like board games, tabletop RPGs, or live-action role-playing (LARP), which can create a sense of belonging and camaraderie.

4. Nostalgia and Escapism

Sometimes, adults continue to engage in pretend play because it offers a sense of nostalgia or comfort. For example, playing with childhood toys, revisiting fantasy worlds, or watching superhero movies allows adults to reconnect with their inner child, providing joy and a break from the complexity of adult responsibilities.

5. Mental and Emotional Benefits

Pretend play can help adults work through difficult emotions and scenarios in a safe, imaginative environment. It allows for experimentation and exploring different outcomes without real-world consequences, which can be therapeutic. Additionally, it provides an opportunity for self-reflection and catharsis.

6. Entertainment and Hobbies

Many adults engage in pretend play simply because it’s fun. For example, acting out characters in video games or participating in costume play (cosplay) is a form of entertainment that can be both fulfilling and enjoyable. Fantasy fiction, whether in books, movies, or online, often encourages adults to immerse themselves in made-up worlds, and the act of pretending is simply an extension of that enjoyment.

Conclusion:

While pretend play may look different as adults, it remains a healthy and enjoyable way to express creativity, relieve stress, and maintain a sense of fun. As long as it doesn’t interfere with day-to-day responsibilities and relationships, there's no reason why adults can't continue to engage in pretend play. In fact, it can be a sign of emotional maturity, creativity, and an ability to balance both the real and imaginative worlds.