Is excessive crying harmful?
Science tells us that when a baby cries alone and unattended for long periods of time, they experience anxiety and panic. When trying to understand whether excessive crying is harmful to a baby, consider that their body and brain are then flooded with stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol. These hormones prevent the still-developing nerves from making important connections with other nerves and therefore risk premature degeneration.
Do babies who are left to "soothe" themselves suffer negative impacts to the brain that will have permanent effects on neurodevelopment?
Research has shown that children who are constantly separated from their parents in a state of stress have abnormally high levels of cortisol in their blood and low levels of growth hormone. This imbalance affects the development of the brain's nerve tissue, growth, and the immune system.
Dr. Bruce Perry concludes that when chronic stress overstimulates the infant's brainstem, the child will grow up with overactive adrenal glands. This could increase the incidence of aggression, impulsivity, and violence because the brainstem will have been frequently and inappropriately flooded with stress hormones.
Additionally, children who are separated from their parents experience abnormal heart rhythms, decreased REM sleep, and unstable body temperature.
What can be done to reduce the risk of damage?
According to Dr. Michael Lewis, the most important influence on a child's intellectual development is the quality and sensitivity of a mother's (and father's) responses to their baby's cues. A secure attachment supports healthy emotional and intellectual development and sets the stage for balanced social relationships in the future.
References:
https://www.askdrsears.com/topics/health-concerns/fussy-baby/science-says-excessive-crying-could-be-harmful
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Danielle Denichaud RHN, RC/YT, B.CS
Nutrition and Holistic Health Consultant
photo, Maude Chauvin
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