Why Do We Hug Teddy Bears?

Studies have shown that teddy bears can help children cope with trauma, but the story of hugging began in late 2019 when wildfires in Australia devastated the habitat of millions of animals and the homes of thousands of people. UNICEF estimated at the time that the fires affected approximately 40 percent of Australian children. Many of them felt trauma due to the fires, and because teddy bears have the ability to soothe and comfort, UNICEF organized therapeutic sessions with handmade teddy bears that children could carry and hug. Researchers are still learning more about the emotions people attach to teddy bears and how they keep them throughout their lives. The science behind hugging teddy bears has the potential to assist doctors in treating anxiety, reducing fear, and addressing trauma.