This Springer essential aims to present the various research branches on the topic of hugging and to unite them in a multidisciplinary perspective. Hugs are an important part of close social relationships and, according to current research, can positively contribute to mental and physical health. The research interest in the scientific exploration of hugging has increased significantly in various disciplines in recent years.

Hugs and Mental & Physical Health Incorporating all Research Branches on the Topic of Hugging Self-Hugging and Group Hugging

Autorentext

Professor Dr. Sebastian Ocklenburg is a Professor of Research Methods in Psychology at MSH Medical School Hamburg, where he conducts research on the psychological significance of social touch.

Inhalt

Introduction: From Self-Hugging to Group Hugging: Forms of Embraces.- From Hormones to Neurons: The Neuroscientific Perspective on Embraces.- The Influence of Culture and Gender on Embraces.- How Embraces Can Help Regulate Stress.- Do Embraces Have an Effect on Physical Health?.- Embraces in the Animal Kingdom and the Evolution of Embraces.- The Future of Embrace Research.