Nature & Nurture #134: Dr. Sergio Pellis - The Neurobiology of Play

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