Babies, babies...

The article and subsequent class discussion on how babies are quite adept at knowing 'good or bad' was interesting and not at all surprising. Although babies cannot vocalize thoughts and feelings it is apparent in social dynamics who babies are most comfortable with. There is clearly an instinctual, inner compass that babies listen to and respond with. I have been in social situations where the token infant is passed along for all to hug and adore, however, those who aren't comfortable holding the baby, who are nervous, awkward and unsure cause the baby to wiggle about and cry. They have no inhibitions. If they don't want to be held by someone, they are not concerned about hurting feelings because they are good about screaming when their needs are not being met! I have seen this countless times. And of course it may just be an 'off' day for the baby and crying is the pattern of the day... we'll never know for sure, because they can't sit up and say 'hey, that guy is bad and he's not holding me!' I think that as babies grow to toddlers and children the social rules of engagement come into play, as parents (who don't want to be embarrassed or raise unruly children) require children to be polite and trust. The inhibitions diminish and there's not as many viable options for screaming one's head off. I believe this socializing is essential and it is a process of development and learning to navigate the social world. Ideally there are adequate and excellent parents to guide the way.