4 ms·

I did some research on hugging and self-hugging for a presentation at a Chaos Computer Club event. Mainly trying to find out why self-hugs don't seem to work as

• coldtea 8y ago
  Because the hug is about the connection with the other, not about something arbitrary wrapping your body?
  • spython 8y ago
    Mainly that. Furthermore, the topics of mutual vulnerability (both parties are defenseless during a hug), joint attention, synchronicity in movement (which reinforces bonding) are ignored in favour things that are easier to replicate, such as the anxiolytic qualities of chest compression. In a way, a good consensual hug is a powerful promise of support and protection.
  • Rebelgecko 8y ago
    Some people—particularly on the autism spectrum— get stress relief from weighted blankets and things like the Thundershirt (the thundershirt is an as-seen-on-tv product for dogs, but there's similar garmets for people. I'm just not sure what the generic term would be).
    • coldtea 8y ago
      That's called a "security blanket"