Raising children in an environment that lacks physical and emotional warmth—such as not hugging or showing physical affection—can have long-term effects on their emotional and social development. This article explores the importance of hugs and the impact of a lack of physical and emotional warmth in childhood, referencing various research studies and statistics to highlight why showing love and warmth to children matters.
The Importance of Touch and Hugs in Childhood
“Touch” and “hugs” play a crucial role in a child’s development, especially during early childhood. Hugging stimulates the release of oxytocin, a hormone that helps build emotional bonds and reduce stress. Moreover, hugging supports brain development, particularly in the hippocampus, which is associated with memory and learning.
The Impact of Lacking Physical and Emotional Warmth in Childhood
A lack of physical and emotional warmth in childhood can lead to various long-term problems, such as:
- Emotional and mental health issues: Children who lack warmth are more likely to develop depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges in adulthood.
- Social difficulties: A lack of touch and warmth may hinder a child’s ability to form relationships and lead them to avoid social situations.
- Behavioral problems: Children who grow up without warmth may exhibit aggressive behavior or struggle with emotional regulation.
- Physical effects: The absence of warmth can impact physical development, including brain growth and the immune system.
Related Statistics
Studies have shown that children raised with warmth tend to have a hippocampus up to 10% larger, supporting better learning and memory. Research from Australia found that 41% of adults who attempted suicide had a history of emotional neglect in childhood. Other studies also indicate that children lacking warmth are more likely to develop depression, anxiety, and other mental health problems in adulthood.
|
|---|
Guidelines for Promoting Warmth in the Family
|
| Show physical affection |
Regularly hug, touch, or show physical affection |
| Communicate openly |
Talk and openly express feelings to build understanding and connection |
| Create a warm environment |
Create a home atmosphere filled with love and support |
| Prioritize the emotional needs of the child |
Listen to and respond appropriately to the child’s emotional needs |
A lack of physical and emotional warmth in childhood can lead to various long-term problems—emotional, social, behavioral, and physical. Consistently showing love and warmth to children is essential for promoting healthy development and preventing potential future issues. If you notice changes in a child’s behavior or emotions, it is advisable to consult a child psychology expert for appropriate guidance and support.
Psychological Perspective: The Importance of Hugs for Children
1. A hug is the “love language” that children understand best.
During early childhood, a child’s brain cannot interpret complex words or reasoning. However, physical touch—such as hugging, stroking the head, or holding—sends signals to the emotional brain (Limbic System) that say, “You are safe,” “You matter,” and “You are worthy of love.”
This stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system, causing the heart rate to slow down, blood pressure to decrease, and the brain to enter a relaxed state, making it more receptive to new learning.
2. The Love Hormone Released from Hugging: Oxytocin
A study by Uvnäs-Moberg K, 2003 found that positive touch, such as hugging, stimulates the release of the hormone oxytocin, which plays three important roles:
- Reducing stress and anxiety
- Increasing emotional attachment
- Promoting brain development, especially in the hippocampus, which is associated with memory and learning
3. Lack of Touch May Lead to “Emotional Neglect”
If a child grows up in a home where no one hugs or receives warm physical contact, they are at risk of developing insecure attachment, which can lead to psychological problems such as:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Difficulty with emotion regulation
- Low self-esteem
- Antisocial behavior or aggression in some cases
Research by Brown et al., 2017 also found that children who do not receive enough physical touch are 2-3 times more likely to experience depression during adolescence.
Practical Recommendations: How Can Thai Families Build a Culture of Hugging?
- Start small but consistently, such as hugging your child in the morning before leaving the house or before bedtime every night.
- Hug to comfort—no need for many words, just a loving embrace with understanding is enough.
- Hug when happy, not only when the child is sad or crying; for example, after your child achieves something, hug to show pride.
- Hug and express love together, such as saying, “Mom is very proud of you” or “I’m so happy to have you as my child.”
- Create activities that involve hugging, such as reading stories together in bed, carrying your child while playing, or playing fun and warm touch games.
Originally published on theAsianparent Thailand
Money Tips
Building a BakuNation
Becoming a Parent
Ages & Stages
Parenting
Health & Wellness
Education
Lifestyle Section
Become a VIP
Press Room
TAP Recommends
Community
Rewards
VIP Parents
