The family is the first school of social human virtues that all societies need because through the family people are introduced into civil society. That is why, it is necessary for parents to consider the importance of the family. The subject of affections is an essential question in man, so essential that it is difficult for us to understand it. Psychologists and even some psychiatrists describe that affection is something that flows between people when it is given and received, the lack of affection is very difficult to detect because it is not easy to perceive something that apparently doesn't happen, something that, moreover, does not usually occur suddenly and that, normally, is preceded and also accompanied by certain positive stimuli.
According to the UNODC (United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime), affection has a great deal of positive effects on those who receive it. Quoting the publication, “Affection can help children grow smarter, healthier, happier, and more resilient”, proving that it plays a fundamental role in a developing child's life. They go on to say that physical affection, such as hugging releases oxytocin, which “can stimulate growth, strengthen the immune system and even help wounds to heal faster”. On top of all that, it can even help you control stress, anxiety, and your blood pressure. Of course with affection, comes a sense of trust with their parents and self-confidence boosts. This all combined proves that the effects of affection are not only psychological, but physical as well.
From a personal point of view, I’ve been fortunate enough to be gifted with reasonable parents at birth, and now I can see how much of a privilege it really is. Affection isn’t even really a one-sided thing, we both share affection for each other and we both reap the benefits.
All of these factors make a great case as to why one should treat their offspring with care above all else, along with showing gratitude with their own parents for giving them an early advantage in life. The importance of affection cannot be undermined, and parents should do everything in their power to make sure that their child is loved.
By Andrés Díaz and Jazmin Ruíz, Step 10 Blue
