For many parents, especially mother the question of co-sleeping is a great issue. Many parents are concerned with the fear of SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome) and long term emotional effects to the child’s growth and development. Many people believe that co-sleeping is dangerous and might cause suffocation during sleep. Some also argue that co-sleeping might cause self-esteem problems that can linger into adulthood. Many experts such as Dr. Sears and Dr. McKenna have studied these issues and this is what they have to say.
According to Dr. William Sears “Don't worry; continue co-sleeping. Because I have thoroughly researched this common concern and written two books on the subject, The Baby Sleep Book and SIDS: A Parent's Guide to Understanding and Preventing Sudden Infant Death Syndrome” (Sears, 2011) Dr. Sears has been studying Attachment Parenting for many years and is considered an expert on the subject. His books are very informative and can provide valuable information to parents who may have many concerns about co-sleeping.
Dr. James McKenna has also been studying the effects of co-sleeping and the behavioral effects of it. Here is what he found “In a survey of adult college age subjects, Lewis and Janda (2) report that males who co-slept with their parents between birth and five years of age had significantly higher self-esteem, experienced less guilt and anxiety, and reported greater frequency of sex. Boys who co-slept between 6 and 11 years of age also had higher self-esteem. For women, co-sleeping during childhood was associated with less discomfort about physical contact and affection as adults.” (Dr. James McKenna Univ. Notre Dame)
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