Play behavior is a very frequent phenomenon in juvenile individuals of various species, mainly mammals. The purpose of the present article is to review the studies in rodents, more specifically in golden hamsters (Mesocricetus auratus) and albino rats (Rattus norvegicus). These animals show the highest indices of play complexity and are, among rodents, the animals most studied in the laboratory in this field of research. Through this review of the literature we conclude that play behavior: a) is a motivational system in its own right and possesses characteristics that differentiate it from other motivational systems; b) is modulated by the sex and age of individuals and of the partners involved in the social interaction; and c) has a functional significance that may be related to physical training and the preparation of the individuals for life in a social environment. In this way, play behavior can be relevant to the understanding of aspects of behavioral and social development.
Play behavior; Rodents; Development; Motivation; Function