We all know that the teddy bear is a child’s best friend and source of comfort, but what makes this timeless toy so effective in boosting morale? In recent years, adults have started using stuffed animals to reduce stress and anxiety. In fact, studies suggest that keeping a stuffed animal nearby can promote calm during difficult times. But why is the teddy bear particularly successful in accomplishing this feat? Let’s take a closer look at how the beloved comforter turned out to be an amazing antidote to stress.
The study in detail.
In order to better understand the depth of attachment people have to their stuffed animals, a participatory study was conducted during the European Researchers’ Night to analyze the visual, olfactory and kinesthetic characteristics of teddy bears in order to identify the factors that contribute to the perception of comfort. To gauge people’s feelings for their teddy bear, they submitted a questionnaire to 12,000 participants who were asked to give detailed feedback on smell, softness, appearance and grip. After completing this questionnaire with their own teddy bear, each person was asked to repeat the experiment with a teddy bear that did not belong to them.
The results showed that the owners had an inflated estimate of the comforting benefits of their teddy bear compared to the neutral responses given during the reiteration. This suggests that the comfort provided by teddy bears relies on a complex combination of physical characteristics, ownership status, and sentimental attachment between person and object. So, it’s not just one particular feature that makes a teddy bear so special; it is often a unique blend of all these elements that produces its ultimate comforting power.
Having a comforter into adulthood can have immense mental health benefits.
A stuffed animal can provide comfort in difficult times.
During times of stress or sadness, the physical presence of a loving, calming object can be deeply reassuring. Studies have shown that the presence of a comforting object can help alleviate feelings of depression and anxiety. Additionally, cuddling a stuffed animal can trigger the release of oxytocin, known as the “cuddle hormone,” which helps lower cortisol levels and increase relaxation.
A stuffed animal can serve as an outlet for emotions in difficult times.
Stuffed animals are often seen as non-judgmental confidants, providing comfort and support when no one else is around to lend a listening ear. People who have experienced trauma or are dealing with an overwhelming situation may find it easier to express their true feelings by talking to their stuffed animal rather than another person. This simple gesture can be a powerful tool for releasing emotions like fear or anger in order to achieve emotional balance and clarity.
Having a stuffed animal as an adult also has cognitive benefits.
Research has shown that the simple act of holding or squeezing a cuddly toy activates areas of the brain associated with memory formation and recall, allowing us to access stored knowledge more efficiently during times of stress or fear. . Even more, playing with our stuffed animals will foster creativity and imagination, which is essential for developing strong problem-solving skills later in life.
On a psychological level, owning a cuddly toy until adulthood is a sign of insecurity.
Owning a stuffed animal into adulthood can be interpreted as a sign of psychological insecurity, as it can signify an unstable emotional state where one seeks solace from physical objects. This is especially true if the person refuses to part with their stuffed animal, despite having reached an age where such attachment is deemed socially unacceptable.
Studies have shown that this type of behavior can be a sign of underlying anxiety and feelings of loneliness, which lead the individual to rely on external factors for comfort rather than to maintain feelings. meaningful relationships. These individuals are often at risk of developing unhealthy coping mechanisms to mask their insecurities, including addictions and social avoidance issues. Ultimately, owning a stuffed animal as an adult can be seen as a red flag for possible psychological issues that require professional intervention.
