Alexía Björg Jóhannesdóttir
Alexía Björg Jóhannesdóttir graduates with a master's degree from the arts and welfare program from the art education department in the spring of 2026
Idiots and well-being
The impact of real games on adults
This essay, entitled Assumption and Well-being - the effects of real games on adults, discusses whether and why adults should play more and be in closer contact with their stupidity. A work-related study was conducted in which three drama-game courses were held for different groups of adults: female prisoners in the prison in Hólmheiði, patients from the psychiatric departments of Landspítalin in Kleppi and for immigrants in Mími lifelong learning. Questionnaires were administered to participants in two of the courses, before and after a course to assess well-being.
The results of the study suggest that a real, rude, idiotic environment although an organized game, here simply called fooling around, can have a positive effect on people's well-being and increase joy, improve communication and strengthen self-image Participants showed greater well-being after participating in the courses It was also found that play can create a safe space for expression and bonding.
The study supports the conclusion that play is not only tied to childhood, but is an important part of the mental health and well-being of adults. The results indicate that increased space for play and foolery in society can have a positive effect on people's quality of life.
Supervisors Kristín Valsdóttir and Agnar Jón Egilsson
30 ECTS Arts and Welfare
2026
