According to Hymer, the idea for the study was sparked during the COVID-19 pandemic when she spent a lot of time watching Christmas movies with her toddler. One favorite was the 2003 film "Elf," starring Will Ferrell as a full-sized human raised among elves who goes to New York City to find his biological father. The film prompted Hymer to wonder about why someone would want to be Santa Claus and what their experiences in that role would be. "I was fascinated by the idea of someone who would choose to embody the spirit of Santa Claus, even if it meant giving up their own identity," Hymer said.

The study's findings suggest that being a professional Santa is not just a seasonal job, but a way of life for many individuals. "It's a calling, not just a job," said one Santa Claus participant in the study. "It's a way of spreading joy and making people happy, and that's something that you can do all year round, not just during the holiday season." The study also found that many professional Santas experience a sense of community and belonging among their peers, which helps to sustain them throughout the year.

The idea of being Santa Claus as a year-round identity challenges traditional notions of the character. "Santa is not just a jolly old man in a red suit," said Hymer. "He's a symbol of generosity, kindness, and compassion. And those are qualities that people can embody and live out all year round, not just during the holidays." The study's findings have implications for our understanding of identity and community, and highlight the importance of empathy and compassion in our daily lives.

The study's results have also sparked interest in the world of professional Santa Claus-keeping, with some schools and organizations offering training and certification programs for would-be Santas. "It's a growing field," said Hymer. "More and more people are recognizing the value of spreading joy and making a difference in people's lives, and that's something that we can all learn from." As the holiday season comes to a close, the study's findings serve as a reminder that the spirit of Santa Claus is alive and well, and that it can be a powerful force for good in our lives all year round.