Published Findings

The Nurture Science Program is a multidisciplinary team of research scientists and clinicians dedicated to exploring the biological and behavioral mechanisms and benefits associated with nurture. This approach spans the research continuum — from basic science and translational research to clinical care — and includes the development of new theories rooted in research and testing.

Findings from cell biology and neurobiology, combined with insights from psychology, psychiatry, and child development research, support the new construct of emotional connection and direct the development of practical, nurture-based therapies to emotionally connect parents and children.

The results are clear, compelling, and critical to helping children and families. Nurture is a powerful force to support healthy physical, mental, and emotional development. Lack of nurture leads to long-term, far-reaching problems. The Nurture Science Program team’s research strongly suggests that nurture-based interventions can help to overcome and prevent many of these difficulties.

Clinical Research

A randomized control trial of Family Nurture Intervention in the neonatal intensive care unit showed long-term benefits for babies and their mothers.

Theoretical Development

The Nurture Science Program developed two new constructs — emotional connection and visceral/autonomic co-regulation. Together, these form the Calming Cycle Theory.

Basic Research

Molecular biology, cell biology, and animal models show the powerful biological effects of nurture.