Hush, little baby: exploring the need for interpersonal affection in infancy

Abstract

"This study seeks to explore the links that are being made between a lack of interpersonal affection during infancy and an individual's later integration into society. Researching neglect proves difficult due to the limited ways in which data can be collected. Therefore, the base of this study employs qualitative content analysis of secondary data sources, with a supplemental piece employing standardized open-ended interviews. Interpretation of results informed the following five links, each connecting a lack of interpersonal affection to: arrested physiological development, an inability to fulfill attachment needs, erratic behavior, an inability to connect socially, and the ability to effectively receive interpersonal affection. Initial conclusions drawn from the study affirm affection to be a genuine need and a foundational component throughout the lifespan, with a final conclusion highlighting the difficulty in rectifying the detrimental effects caused by interpersonal neglect, further emphasizing the need for increased societal awareness"--Leaf iii