A family with more than one child might be chaotic, especially if the children bicker a lot. A study reveals it might be better to get a dog for the kids to bring peace in the household.
Experts from the University of Cambridge learned that children get along with dogs better than they do with their siblings. Their study supports previous researches that claim having pets while the kids are young can help with their emotional development and well-being.
The study, which has been published in the Journal of Applied Developmental Psychology, looked into 77 families who have 12-year-old kids and pets. Most of those surveyed have dogs for pets and the expert learned that as the children maintain a stronger relationship with their four-legged best friends, there's also less conflict around the house between the siblings.
The experts also learned that it's the girls who develop more attachment, both companionship and conflict, to their pets. "Girls may interact with their pets [than boys] in more nuanced ways," lead study author Matt Cassels said, according to Cambridge News.
One reason as to why children might prefer their dogs better than their siblings could be because dogs can't talk back. They just sit next to their owners, listening and soothing them. "The fact that pets cannot understand or talk back may even be a benefit as it means they are completely non-judgmental," Cassels further said.
The Scientific American reports on two other studies done in the previous decade that suggested having pets helps kids develop healthy social skills. Those who bonded with a furry pal in their younger life cultivate leadership qualities in their teens. "An animal may be a way to facilitate the emotions and social skills necessary for developing and maintaining adaptive social relationships with other humans," veterinary researcher Megan K. Mueller concluded.
Are you surprised by the study's findings? Would you consider having pets for your kids? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
