playfighting
Playfighting, also known as rough-and-tumble play, is a common behavior observed in many animal species, including humans, primates, canids, and felids. It is characterized by mock combat behaviors such as chasing, wrestling, nipping, and biting, which are performed in a playful context rather than for aggression. This type of play is often distinguished by self-handicapping, where one participant allows the other to "win" or inhibits their strength, and by playful facial expressions and vocalizations.
The primary function of playfighting is believed to be the development of social and physical skills. It
In humans, playfighting typically begins in early childhood and can continue into adolescence and adulthood. It