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Showing posts from July, 2011

Of Monkeys and Friends

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An article published in Science Daily in January 2010 talked about the importance of siblings on human children's socialization.  Their influence is such that as adults, and long after we have departed the nest, our lives are still considerably influenced by them socially and emotionally. The article was based on studies carried out by Professor Laurie Kramer (Illinois University) on siblings as "agents of socialization". Friends are also very important in socialization and have a considerable influence on us, especially during our teen years.  Studies show that adolescents often pick up smoking as a result of "peer pressure". Our parents teach us right from wrong, how to behave in public, clean up, eat properly.  They teach us the basics, as well as the love and care we need. Similarly, m onkey and great ape mothers are instrumental in the development of their offsprings. They protect them from danger, feed them, teach them the essential skills they will ne...