Phenomenology of game and game activities: modern approaches

Abstract

The article analyzes the research of the phenomenon of the game in the essence-existential dimension. The leading philosophical, culturological and psychological approaches to the definition of the essence of the game are presented. It is proved that the game is a natural, organic element and a product of human culture, a natural result of evolution, which testifies to its belonging to the effective means of personal development and human socialization.
The author determined the features of the game, among which: freedom, spontaneity and activity, that is, activity which is deprived of control and programming; interaction with the use of various objects and means (material and nonmaterial), filled with the practical actions and mobility; lack of pragmatic goals and results, since it is carried out for the gaming activity; feeling pleasant emotions and pleasures associated with the game process.
The functions of the game (dramatic, cathartic and compensatory functions, formation and development of social skills, etc.) are revealed, which determine its use in psychological and pedagogical practice. The requests for scientific understanding of not only positive meanings and functions of the game, but also its risk-taking aspects are substantiated.