Psychologist Markus Kiefer explains the needs as follows: Are cuddly toys normal for adults?

Cute toys as an important backup

“The function of cuddly toys is the same for adults as for children,” says Kiefer. This has to do with the concept of commitment. Connecting with parents, siblings, other people. But it’s also a bond with pets and stuffed animals. «We form emotional bonds with the people and objects around us. “Secure attachment during childhood and adolescence is of central importance for personality development.” A safe and secure bond with parents leads to mental health and the confidence that one is supported.

According to Kiefer, cute toys are called transitional objects within the framework of this attachment theory. “Children bond with stuffed animals, so when their parents aren’t there, something else takes their place.” For example, because they are in a different room. Or at night when the child is left alone in the dark. “In these situations, a transitional object takes on the role of the parents and calms and comforts them.”

Normally, the need for such transitional objects diminishes around the age of six, Kiefer says. “Then, ideally, children will develop solid bonds with those around them and know that they are there for you, even if you can’t see them right now.”

You can establish a closer emotional bond with cute toys

However, if you are going through a difficult time as a child and cannot form a healthy bond with your parents, transitional objects such as cuddly toys may be needed for a longer period of time. adulthood. “The attachment experiences we have as children shape us,” says Kiefer. If your parents are rarely sensitive and instead act condescending or even aggressive, you may develop a fear of attachment. “As an adult, you have difficulty interacting with other people in a trusting way.”

In the worst case scenario, this can lead to borderline personality disorder (a condition in which those affected are unable to form stable relationships and experience a strong fear of abandonment). Because people are social creatures, they look for alternative ways to relieve themselves when they have problems, for example with cute toys. “They are soft and cute and can also be a souvenir of your own childhood.”

Doesn’t have to be a sign of a mental health problem

Cuddly toys have another advantage: they don’t judge. “Cute toys are always with you, do not run away and maintain the necessary balance.” Even if you know these are inanimate stuffed animals, this is important and reassuring to those affected, Kiefer says. He was able to clearly observe this effect in daily clinical practice.

Even mentally healthy adults don’t need to worry or feel embarrassed if they still have cuddly toys, according to Kiefer. “Insecurities in our relationships are a part of life. Stuffed animals can help with emotional calm. Therefore, not being taken seriously or labeled as immature has to do with social norms and social acceptance. “Experience clearly shows that cuddly toys can have the same emotional function for adults as for children.”

Do you have a cute toy too? Then send us a photo of your teddy bear and tell us what makes it so special to you!