#Infantmentalhealth

A new study published in Developmental Psychology highlights how responsive parenting can shape the emotional brain of babies with sensitive or turbulent temperaments. When caregivers consistently attune to a baby’s cues, the developing brain shows patterns linked to better emotional regulation and empathy. The findings hold significance for Thai families and global parenting practices alike, suggesting adaptive caregiving supports long-term resilience.

About 20% of newborns are naturally highly sensitive—quick to startle, easily upset, and slow to settle. If these traits are not buffered by positive caregiving, they can increase the risk of later emotional challenges, including anxiety. In Thailand’s context, where harmony and self-control are valued, supporting healthy emotional development is a priority for parents and educators, and aligns with public health goals to reduce behavioral and academic difficulties.

A new study published just days ago in “Developmental Psychology” has spotlighted the remarkable impact of responsive parenting on infants born with sensitive or “turbulent” temperaments—a revelation with far-reaching significance for Thai families and global parenting practices alike (Neuroscience News). Researchers report that attuned caregiving, in which parents accurately and consistently respond to a baby’s cues, can “rewire” the developing brain to foster better emotional regulation and empathy, especially in babies most at risk for later anxiety and emotional difficulties.