LEGO bricks have been a childhood classic for decades. Afterall, there is something so satisfying about snapping these tiny pieces together to turn them into something incredible. But are they just for kids? In recent years, LEGO has created designs increasingly appealing to adults. And as the data show, 59% of adults believe it’s ‘perfectly ok’ for adults to build with LEGOs.  

Women slightly outpace men in their approval of adults playing with LEGOs, as do adults aged 65+ and parents. So while everyone might not be on the same page about whether or not adults should be playing with this classic toy, the data reveal that those who do approve exhibit unique consumer behaviors–in and out of the toy aisle.

Economic Concerns: Adults who say it’s ‘perfectly ok’ for adults to play with legos are the most concerned about the economy and jobs, outpacing those who say it is ‘not ok’ by six percentage points. Perhaps LEGO fans are just looking for a little escape from reality? 

Getting Out of the House: Those who approve of adults playing with legos are eight percentage points more likely than those who are against it to say that their desire to leave the house has increased–once again suggesting that adult LEGO fans are determined to keep living life. 

Quality Comes First: When it comes to brand loyalty, adults who love playing with LEGOs are 24 percentage points more likely to say that quality is the factor that keeps them loyal. And anyone who has stepped barefoot on a LEGO can vouch for the fact those bricks somehow never break. 

Political Engagement: Adult lego fans are the least likely to be engaged with politics on a state and local level, but outpace non-fans by 13 percentage points on a national level (41% vs. 28%). Just like when building a LEGO set, this group thinks big picture. 

Sparking Joy: Those who believe it is ‘perfectly ok’ for adults to play with legos are also the happiest of all respondents, by a long shot–suggesting that there really is a link between doing something you love and feeling better. 

Given the fact that the majority of Americans believe it is ‘perfectly ok’ for adults to play with LEGOs, it’s worth considering the crossover that LEGO building has with other consumer behaviors–from political engagement to leaving the house and everything in between. What’s clear is that LEGO adults are finding a bit of respite from the adult world in a nostalgic childhood toy and for the time being, that may be just the salve they need.