The Importance of Belonging: Connecting for Survival and Thriving

🧩Human infants are born the most vulnerable mammals on the planet and rely on the connection with other humans for survival.

🤝Belonging provides a psychological sense of security, allowing individuals to relax, think, learn, and connect with others.

💔When children don't feel claimed or connected, their brains go into survival mode, hindering their ability to thrive and grow.

🚫Children who lack a secure protector and a sense of belonging are at risk of psychological and emotional harm.

❤️Belonging feels like home, safety, and being deeply connected to someone who has our back.

Why is belonging important for human survival?

—Belonging is important for human survival because human infants are born the most vulnerable mammals and rely on the connection with other humans for their survival. Without belonging, children fail to thrive and grow.

How does belonging impact psychological well-being?

—Belonging provides a psychological sense of security, allowing individuals to relax, think, learn, and connect with others. It is essential for psychological well-being and forms the basis for healthy relationships and emotional fulfillment.

What happens when children lack a sense of belonging?

—When children lack a sense of belonging, their brains go into survival mode, hindering their ability to thrive and grow. They may experience heightened anxiety, hyperarousal, and difficulty in establishing healthy relationships.

Can lack of belonging have long-term effects on individuals?

—Yes, the lack of belonging can have long-term effects on individuals, including increased vulnerability to mental health issues, difficulty in forming and maintaining relationships, and reduced overall life satisfaction. It is essential to address and support a sense of belonging from early childhood.

How can society promote a sense of belonging?

—Society can promote a sense of belonging by ensuring the availability of supportive caregivers, strong social networks, inclusive communities, and opportunities for meaningful connections. Creating environments that make individuals feel valued, accepted, and connected is crucial for fostering belonging.

00:00Human infants are born the most vulnerable mammals on the planet and rely on the connection with other humans for survival.

04:20Children who lack a secure protector and a sense of belonging are at risk of psychological and emotional harm.

07:18Belonging provides a psychological sense of security, allowing individuals to relax, think, learn, and connect with others.

11:53When children don't feel claimed or connected, their brains go into survival mode, hindering their ability to thrive and grow.

13:18Belonging feels like home, safety, and being deeply connected to someone who has our back.