By Darcia F. Narvaez, Psychology Today, November 7, 2021
A ten-year longitudinal study conducted by our lab at the University of Notre Dame has been examining the the human species’ developmental system for raising the young, what we call the evolved nest (evolved developmental niche; EDN). Most of the components of the EDN have mammalian roots more than 75 million years old. They helped our ancestors adapt (survive, thrive and reproduce, over generations outcompeting rivals without the components). We are finding that evolved nest provision in childhood is related to child and adult health—physiological, mental, social, and moral.
The evolved nest for young children includes soothing pre- and perinatal experiences, extensive affectionate touch, on-request breastfeeding, a welcoming, supportive and safe social climate, multiple stable responsive caregivers, self-directed social play, nature immersion and connection, and routine healing practices. Around the world, societies that provide the evolved nest have healthier, more cooperative members. Industrialized nations have moved away from providing the evolved nest, especially to young children, when it is most needed, providing instead toxic stress.
Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are a particular form of toxic stress. As typically measured, ACEs include physical, sexual, and emotional abuse; domestic violence; physical or emotional neglect; parental drug addiction or mental illness; and parental divorce or jailing. It is estimated that approximately two thirds of adults have experienced one or more ACEs. In population studies, a greater number of ACEs increases the likelihood of poor health outcomes and even early death.
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