Openness to Experience Predicts Engagement in Role-Play: Evidence From Two Methodologies

Background: Role-play, or the transient embodiment of a different role from one’s own, is a uniquely human activity that permeates many aspects of life. However, what psychosocial factors is one’s involvement in role-play associated with? Current role-play research tends to focus on limited variables and is partially marred by negative perception towards role-play in the context of online gaming. Nonetheless, it is undeniable that role-play has potential to elicit psychosocial benefits, including improvements in empathy, resilience, and self-esteem, as well as the amelioration of psychopathology. Therefore, the present study conducts a large-scale survey to identify significant psychosocial benefits that are associated with the individual’s engagement in role-play activities. Background variables such as sociodemographic and personality factors are also included to enhance understanding of types of individuals who engage in role-play. Methods: A total of 265 adults were recruited for this study, and data were analyzed using two analytic methods: (1) multiple logistic regression and (2) machine learning, namely support vector machine. Results: Results from both methods agreed that higher openness to experience, a personality factor, significantly increases the likelihood of the individual having reported previous role-play experience. Discussion: While findings remain inconclusive regarding associated psychosocial benefits of role-play, results suggest significant predisposing factors that shape the individual’s tendency to engage in role-play activities. Conclusion: The present study provides a large-scale investigation into a wide scope of psychosocial and predisposing factors associated with the individual’s role-play experience. Using two analytic methodologies, it was found that there are significant predisposing personality traits that increase the likelihood of the individual engaging in role-play activities.