Why "spoiled" babies grow up to be smarter/kinder/ kids

[KaraStarbuckThrace]

here

Really good article, though am a bit at the use of the word spoiled.

Sad to think that some people think that you can spoil babies with too many cuddles

thanks for that kara, very interesting and also reassuring

interesting other articles too. thanks.

That use of 'spoiling' just shows how much society has lost its way when it comes to nurturing babies.

Though I don't think it's new ground -- Bowlby theory from wiki.

I just wish I'd seen all this stuff when I was pregnant for the first time...

'All three studies suggested the same thing: children who are shown more affection early in life reap big benefits.
Researchers found that kids who were held more by their parents, whose cries received quick responses in infancy and who were disciplined without corporal punishment were more empathic'

On what planet does that count as spoiling a child? That's just loving them isn't it?

I know Goblin, but you see so many threads from people who have been told by relatives, to let tiny babies CIO, or that they are picking them up and cuddling too often

spoiling is the wrong word, imo.

I think responsive is better.

Ummm that's not a research paper, its just some woman promoting her new book. There's no references for the three studies she mentions, they could have been done by anyone!
Of course little babies need love and affection, but other siblings and husbands (and you) deserve attention too and you can't do that if you're constantly holding a new baby.

I reckon the title was picked for a response and to get people to read it. Doesn't mention spoiled anywhere in the article. It's a bit vague though. To what age should we be having our children constantly within arms reach?

You are right Karoleann, there are no references for the studies, but she is not promoting her book. She is referenced in another book.

I agree that spoiling is the wrong term.

Karoleann - you can if they are in a sling!

Going by this then ds should be a bloody saint

I don't think that showing affection is spoiling!

Foxytocin, unfortunately, to some people responsiveness means spoiling.

All the mothers and mother-in-laws out there who tell new parents that they shouldn't pick the baby up straight away or they'll be spoiling it don't give references to research papers either. I think the more the idea that responsiveness is NOT WRONG gets into mainstream public thinking, the better!