What do you think is more important for a healthy development? Food or human contact?
In a study conducted by psychologist Harry Harlow, monkeys developmental pattern and social bonding skills is directly influenced by touch and maternal contact, proving that mother’s love is just as important, if not more important than food for their healthy development.
After deeply analyzing this study and it’s results, psychologists and doctors came to the conclusion that touch is necessary for survival, not just a pleasantry in early childhood.
Holding your baby is so much more than just a sweet moment between parent and baby. A mother’s touch changes a child life for the better, making them more able to build relationships, control stress and understand other people’s emotions.
Who knew monkeys could teach us this much!
Photos: Monkeys in Bale Mountains