Serotonin is a neurotransmitter. The communication which results from an electro-chemical impulse between neurons and neurotransmitters influences all aspects of our behaviour. Serotonin is one such type of neurotransmitter and is linked primarily with processing emotions and acting as a calming mechanism.
Serotonin also plays a role in the control of eating, sleep and arousal, as well as the regulation of pain and various moods. Researchers associate high levels of serotonin with high self-esteem and social status while low levels of serotonin have even been linked to depression, impulsivity, risky behaviour, aggression, anger, and hostility.
When serotonin levels are normal or elevated we feel good, when they are low we feel awful. People suffering from chronically low levels of serotonin are often clinically depressed and given medication to enhance the uptake of this feel good chemical in the brain.
Significantly, and not unlike so many other chemicals in the brain, serotonin operates and fluctuates differently in males and females.
For those who raise and work with children, it is important to remember that both boys and girls have serotonin, however, for boys their level of this important chemical is often impacted by testosterone and other chemicals. Serotonin is also not processed as well in the brains of boys.
In practical terms this often results in boys having lower levels of serotonin from time to time resulting in a greater predisposition to fidget and act impulsively.
Therefore, asking a fidgeting boy to stop squirming or to sit still might be as successful as asking that same boy to hiccup on demand; when the uptake of serotonin in the brain is low, then fidgeting is often a common occurrence.
As parents or educators, it might be sensible for us to adjust our expectations rather than trying to force boys to do something that is physiologically difficult for them. Moreover, taking a restless boy and putting him in a situation where he is expected to sit still for long periods of time or play quietly on demand is not always going to end well for anyone.
You do not have to be an expert in neuroscience to know that boys tend to be in perpetual motion. Given the chance, they run, chase, dig, climb, build and destroy. It is rare to find young boys sitting quietly and listening and they seem naturally wired for movement. Testosterone and serotonin play a significant part in this behaviour and physical activity and play help mediate the impact of these chemicals. In other words, appreciate that boys are built for activity.
And finally, it is significant to note that boys bond by doing things with other boys and with the adults around them as well, so foster opportunities to do so through playful activities.
Boys, by their nature, are designed to be active, to throw things, to compete, to learn by doing and to explore the world around them even when the world, or at least the adults in it, would like them to slow down. New York: W. Child Development. Goodstart Home. Close Subscribe. Like what you see? Sign up to receive more free parenting advice. Her husband would rest his forehead against Justin's and gaze into his eyes. It wasn't long before Justin was bashing his forehead against his father's in anticipation of the game.
Bonding between father and child is healthy, even if it means some tussling, experts agree. But if you feel like Dad's antics are getting out of hand, tell him why. Share examples about how you've seen your child's learned-at-home roughhousing on play dates, and explain that you fear it could hurt his ability to make friends.
Kids also learn from what they see on television: Many studies have linked violent TV shows, including cartoons, to aggressive behavior. After watching Power Rangers , "he'll jump off furniture with high kicks in the air," she says. The simplest solution: Parents need to keep track of the television whenever it's on and should ban violent programs -- or at least pull the youngest kids out of the room -- so children aren't inspired to copy rowdy behavior.
Anecdotal evidence definitely says yes. Boys are more socially conditioned to play rough, says psychologist Jerry L. But boys are also biologically ingrained to do so -- the hormone testosterone increases boys' propensity for aggression, making them more physically vigorous, irritable, and desirous of instant gratification. That doesn't mean that girls don't yank hair or delight in being swung around. But roughhousing, in general, is more noticeable in boys. Of course, even among boys, the love of rough play varies.
Some are born with a more extroverted temperament, says Wyckoff. They need the energy release, plain and simple. If your son or daughter loves to be wild, your best hope lies in channeling that energy into active games, such as playing ball or with ride-on toys, says Isaacs Kohl.
For their own sanity, parents must also set limits, such as allowing tumbling in the playroom but not in the dining room. Finally, provide outlets outside the home, whether it's a jungle gym in the backyard or organized activities such as swimming, gymnastics, soccer, or Tae Kwon Do. Finally, it's important to acknowledge that little kids haven't developed a sense of space and propriety enough to know how much touch is good or bad. It may surprise parents who are watching their spouses and children roll around the floor wrestling, to know that they are actually building their brains and emotional well-being.
Many children simply respond to the physicality and role playing involved in play fighting. Changing roles lead to problem-solving and self-correcting in order to remain in the activity, an essential life skill. Learning to react and change based on reactions of others will serve children in the classroom and the boardroom. Interactions with fathers can help kids learn both self-control and sensitivity to others. These interactions also elicit high levels of positive feelings for both child and adult.
For example, this kind of play is a loving but very clear way of showing kids who is running the show. This helps them develop self-regulation of these behaviors as well as the social boundaries of where they fit into the world. The father dominating physically, within reason, matters. Just not every time.
Scientists also give clear guidelines on what constitutes rough play versus aggression. In play fighting scenarios:. A parent who is trying to play fight with their kid to build long-term skills and to bond should consider conveying several messages to their child, either verbally or nonverbally to set expectations.
These vibes and discussions help to set the tone for positive play fighting experiences. The next time your kids launch into a wrestling match on the ground, looking like Simba and Nala wrestling around like young lion cubs, consider the benefits of roughhousing and play fighting.
The benefits of young children and their peers or parents engaging in some rough but safe play has a variety of benefits, from bonding to aggression management. With proper precautions, such as a safe place to play, and both parties being aware and willing to stop if it starts to go too far, it can be extremely fun for your child.
Knowing the signs of casual play fighting versus a real fight between peers will help to keep things safe and enjoyable. Here's why this is a good thing. Solitary play is an important stage during which your baby begins to play independently.
0コメント