Published May 2022

The evidence is in: children who have a close bond with their parents or primary caregivers are more likely to have improved brain development and be able to thrive than those without such emotional security. Specific policy actions, such as around paid parental-leave entitlements, are therefore critically needed to support parents in caring for children.

These findings are revealed in a new evidence brief Bonding: A brilliant brain builder. The importance of supporting parents to bond with their child from the earliest years, by Dr Felicia Low, a Research Fellow at Koi Tū: The Centre for Informed Futures.

It is based on New Zealand and overseas research showing that people who lacked emotional support as infants are more likely to lead troubled lives. Brain imaging data also graphically illustrate different brain structure and activation in people raised without secure parental relationships, as might result from being neglected or in institutional care. (From the media release). Record #7724