The Developing Brain of Infants Maintains Traces of Attachment: Oxytocin’s Role in Understanding How Children Cope with Separation
The connection between mothers and children not only influences future emotional bonds but also leaves a lasting impact on the developing brain. Researchers from the Weizmann Institute in Israel have unveiled the crucial role of oxytocin in aiding offspring to adapt to separation and strengthen the bond upon reunion, as published in Science. This groundbreaking study offers unprecedented insights into early emotional development.
A novel technique to peer into the brain
Ofer Yizhar’s team devised a non-invasive method to silence specific neurons in mouse pups without disrupting their daily routines. Using a light-sensitive protein, they could achieve this with simple red flashes, an essential tool for studying oxytocin’s effects in distinct social scenarios.
Oxytocin and its influence during separation
During temporary separation from their mothers, the young mice exhibited varied reactions. Activation of the oxytocin system led to a gradual calming down and reduced vocalizations, akin to human crying. Conversely, when the hormone was silenced, the animals struggled to adapt, continuing distress calls until the reunion. This underscores oxytocin’s role in promoting sociability and regulating resilience in solitude.
The enigmatic language of vocalizations
Upon reuniting with their mothers, the offspring displayed a notable pattern in their vocalizations. They emitted high-pitched, rapid sounds before seeking closeness and latching onto the nipple, followed by lower, more spaced-out calls after achieving calmness. Activation of the oxytocin system amplified the intensity of these vocalizations, unveiling a more intricate communication process than previously realized.
Early gender disparities
The study also unearthed initial evidence of oxytocin’s differing effects based on gender from early stages. Female offspring with an active system emitted more calls upon reunion, while no discernible variations were observed in males. This discrepancy could shed light on the disparities between boys and girls long before puberty.
Implications for emotional well-being
Comprehending oxytocin’s role in early attachment offers crucial insights into conditions like autism spectrum disorder. Furthermore, supporting this system in the initial stages could foster a more balanced emotional development. This discovery solidifies the notion that attachment is not merely felt but is intricately ingrained in the infant brain’s architecture.
