There has been so much discussion over the years as to how much affection parents should give their children. And thankfully, a growing body of science-based research is revealing the power of affection and what it means for a child's future.
According to Child Trends, a leading nonprofit research organization focused on improving the lives of children, youth, and their families — scientific studies support the concept that warmth and affection from parents to their children leads to multiple positive outcomes for children.
These include higher self-esteem, improved school performance, fewer psychological and behavior challenges, and better parent-child communication.
On the flip side, children who don't receive healthy levels of affection often suffer from lower self-esteem and can feel alienated, aggressive, aggressive, and anti-social.
In 2010, researchers at Duke University Medical School found that babies with very affectionate and attentive moms grew to be happier, more resilient, and less anxious as they matured into adults. The study included 500 people who were followed from the time they were infants until they hit their 30s. Psychologists observed how mothers interacted with them and followed up with developmental tests.
The following video explains why human touch is so very important for us all. I strongly recommend you watch every second of it:
Just as a reiteration of the importance of affection for children, the following list reveals 10 scientifically backed reasons we should all give our children the love they crave:
#1 - It builds a healthy bond between parent and child and creates a lasting connection.
#2 - It helps build self-esteem and confidence.
#3 - Affection boosts brain development and helps build intelligence.
#4 - It inspires healthier communication with others outside the home.
#5 - It helps children develop stronger social skills.
#6 - Children tend to exhibit fewer behavioral problems.
#7 - Children tend to be more resilient and have less anxiety.
#8 - It creates positive emotions.
#9 - Children tend to be more compassionate, empathetic, and happy.
#10 - It boosts children's immune systems.
Last Words
I understand that affection doesn't come easily for all of us, but thankfully each morning we can wake up with the determination to choose affection and love over distance and/or indifference.
Want ideas on how to become more affectionate and connect more deeply with your child? This article offers some great ideas as a springboard.
