This article reveals the psychological characteristics of the current development of mischievousness as one of the key components of play competence, based on the results of a diagnostic experiment. The research aimed to identify the characteristic features and determinants of mischievousness as they manifest in various social interactions. The total number of participants was 238, with 45% of them being young (ages 21-30) and 55% being of mature age (ages 31-40). Mischievousness, as a central aspect of playfulness, manifests through the ability to maintain autonomy in interpersonal relationships, using flexible emotional control and humor to form and strengthen positive social connections. A key characteristic is the ability to act comfortably in conditions of uncertainty and instability, with a capacity for experimentation and adaptation to changes. Individuals with well-developed mischievousness exhibit high levels of creativity, openness to new experiences, and the ability to navigate between risk and adherence to social norms. An important component is their high emotional intelligence, which allows them to skillfully manage the emotional reactions of others, especially in situations that require testing or stepping beyond conventional boundaries. The psychological profile of such individuals includes moderate extraversion, empathy, and high flexibility in social adaptation, enabling them to function effectively in various social contexts, including complex interpersonal conflict situations. The study also confirmed the importance of the "Mischief" play position as a behavioral model that promotes the development of social competence and cognitive flexibility in young people. Thus, well-developed mischievousness not only affects emotional stability but also enhances the capacity for creative social interaction.
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