SINGAPORE CHILDREN'S PLAY AND CREATIVITY : A SOCIO-PSYCHOLOGICAL STUDY

Abstract

This study attempts to study some of the processes involved in play and creativity. Scores from four indices of play, group and individual, high and low, are compared with scores from the Torrance Tests of Creativity and the Coloured Progressive Matrices (I.Q.). There seems to be a strong positive correlation between play and creativity, substantiating the theoretical observations. Furthermore, a sex difference in creativity has been identified. Boys tend to do better on Originality and Elaboration than girls. This finding tends to be in line with some overseas research. It is suggested that perhaps, independence in play given to boys may be the factor responsible. It is also suggested that independence in play given to girls may not have the same beneficial effects, suggestion that play may have differential functions for boys and girls and that the specific play processes need to be identified. The explanatory or developmental model of play and creativity tend to shed some light on the play patterns and fantasy of boys and girls. Basically, the play patterns of teh sexes are similar, although there are some sex-typed games. Generally, girls play a passive role compared to the boys who are more active and assertive. Girls prefer low structure and small group play activities which might allow for development of intimacy and closeness. Boys prefer high structure and big group play activities and seem to be able to move comfortably between small and big group play. Two creativity measures, Originality and Elaboration, have been found to be positively correlated with intelligence. Furthermore, Fluency is the only measure least affected by language or perhaps, even family attitudes. Flexibility, Originality and Elaboration may be associated with particular personality traits as adaptability, boldness and assertiveness. There is a definite need to study more specifically the social processes and personality variables involved in play and creativity. The concept of a developmental concept of lay and creativity is at least a small step in the right direction.