Playfulness in Coaching

7Adding Emotions into the Mix

DOI: 10.4324/9781003090847-8

In this chapter we:

• Share some thoughts on emotions generally including Feldman-Barrett’s theory of emotions
• Look at playfulness and positive emotions starting with Panksepp’s tickled rats
• Offer an ode to joy
• Ask what’s love got to do with it?
• Marvel at the kaleidoscope of positive emotions in playfulness in coaching
• Ask why it matters if playfulness in coaching generates positive emotions
• Explore ideas around playfulness, positive emotions, and behavioural change
• Consider negative emotions and playfulness in coaching
• Leave you with a little musing on equanimity

7.1 Before We Begin

Although it is often positive emotions that are associated with playfulness in coaching, in particular ...