"At one point in evolution, they were necessary for physical survival. The situation is not quite so dire in contemporary human interactions, but we still depend on others for our connection and sense of well-being. Young children who are not touched or given the opportunity to connect with a caring adult may fail to thrive. Even our successes as adults only yield positive mental health benefits when they are supported and celebrated by those with whom we have meaningful relationships."
"When we are babies, our automatic goal is to establish meaningful and secure connections with our caregivers. In infancy, we connect by touch, eye contact, and facial expression. If we are touched affectionately and see ourselves reflected in the eyes and warm facial expression of our caregiver, we feel safe and cared for... securely connected. As toddlers, we develop deeper connections when we stumble and get hurt and then run to our caregiver who comforts, reassures, and uplifts us."
Relationships are fundamental to human well-being and often remain necessary for emotional survival. Connection functions as a need rather than an optional want for most people. Secure connection develops through affectionate touch, eye contact, comforting responses, steady availability during upset, and later guidance and strategies in middle childhood. Adult close relationships reproduce these caregiving functions, with romantic partners offering additional intimacy and sexual connection. Stresses can erode connection in adult romantic partnerships. Rebuilding connection involves practices aligned with secure attachment, such as forgiveness, open dialogue, affectionate touch, consistent responsiveness, and practical support.
Read at Psychology Today
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