Studies in animal models have strongly suggested that maternal nurturing of offspring is a powerful influence in developing the parts of the brain responsible for regulating memory, stress, and emotions. In a prospective study of pre-school children, Washington University researchers have reported similar findings based on the size of the hippocampus. Maternal nurturing and support in early childhood modified this area of the brain, which is responsible for stress and emotional regulation. Children with early-onset depression were found to have smaller hippocampal volumes. These findings confirm the effects of nurturing on brain development in humans.
PositiveTip: Love and support your children. It will help them cope with the rigors of life.