Imaginary Playmates: A Look Into Childhood Mysteries

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In summary, the researchers found that imaginary playmates are a staple of early development and persist well into the school years. They also found that the imaginary playmates of kids who are paranoid are more interesting than those who are not.
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Ivan Seeking
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A peek into one of the most intriguing childhood mysteries reveals that imaginary playmates are a staple of early development and persist well into the school years -- later than researchers once thought.

"I'm beginning to think it never goes away," said Marjorie Taylor, head of psychology at the University of Oregon and a leading researcher on children's pretend play. "What I think is it morphs into a different form." [continued]
http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/lifestyle/202632_imaginary07.html

Most kids, sooner or later, come to realize their make-believe buddies are not of this world.

In fact, Carlson said, some kids grew concerned about the researchers' grasp of reality during probing interviews.
:smile: :smile: :smile:
 
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  • #2
:smile:

Did those researchers never have imaginary friends when they were children? Maybe they were a bit abnormal, so don't understand what "just pretend" means. :biggrin:

I remember my imaginary friends from childhood, though I'm not sure if I really invented them, or if it was my grandparents. It was an ongoing joke for a long time between me and my grandparents. The imaginary friends were 3 frogs, named Bloop Bloop, Pollywog, and Skizmafraz. Each winter, when my grandparents went to FL (they were the snowbird type), they took the frogs with them. Eventually Pollywog and Skizmafraz dropped out of the picture, but Bloop Bloop traveled with them for a long time. We used to joke in letters to each other (you know, back in the day when grandkids wrote letters to their grandparents) where I'd ask how Bloop Bloop was doing and they'd write back all the trouble he'd gotten into that week. :biggrin: It was a fun game! Maybe we should wonder why my grandparents had the same imaginary friend I had! :smile:
 
  • #3
Quite interesting subject matter... Clive agrees, don't you Clive?
Clive says yes, but only I can hear him you see.
 
  • #4
All of my imaginary playmates were Bunnies. :wink:

:biggrin:
 
  • #5
I have tons of imaginary friends. I play with them every day on PF. I am hoping that one day, like the Velveteen Rabbit, I'll love you enough that you will become real.
 
  • #6
I was never cool enough to have imaginary friends. :cry:
 
  • #7
Imaginary friends are overrated. Imaginary enemies are where things begin to get interesting.
 
  • #8
matthyaouw said:
Imaginary friends are overrated. Imaginary enemies are where things begin to get interesting.

:smile: :smile: :smile: :smile: :smile:

Remember, even if you're paranoid and you know it, they still might be out to get you!
 
  • #9
That's why I keep my tinfoil beanie on a all times! Showering was tricky at first, but I think I'm getting the hang of the thing.
 

FAQ: Imaginary Playmates: A Look Into Childhood Mysteries

What is the definition of an imaginary playmate?

An imaginary playmate is an imaginary friend that a child creates and interacts with in their mind. This friend is not visible to others and is often used as a source of comfort, support, and entertainment.

At what age do children typically start having imaginary playmates?

Children can start having imaginary playmates as early as 2 or 3 years old, but the peak age for having them is around 3 to 7 years old. By the time a child reaches 8 years old, they usually outgrow their imaginary playmate.

Is it concerning if a child has an imaginary playmate?

No, it is not concerning if a child has an imaginary playmate. In fact, it is a normal and healthy part of child development. It allows children to explore their creativity and imagination, as well as develop their social and emotional skills.

Are all imaginary playmates the same?

No, each child's imaginary playmate is unique and can take on different forms, personalities, and behaviors. Some may be human, while others may be animals or objects. It all depends on the child's imagination and what they find comforting or interesting.

Can imaginary playmates have a positive impact on a child's development?

Yes, imaginary playmates can have a positive impact on a child's development. They can help children work through emotions, develop problem-solving skills, and build self-confidence. It also allows them to practice social interactions and communication in a safe and controlled environment.

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