Infants need basic resources like nutrition, stimulation, safety, positive caregiving, and regular sleep, collectively known as the “thrive 5,” for healthy development. Washington University researchers highlight these factors’ importance in brain and cognitive development, advocating for policies and interventions to ensure all children receive these necessities. Credit: SciTechDaily.com
The finding sounds simple, and yet, it has not yet been prioritized for many reasons, including the fact that researchers had not provided empirical data to support making the “thrive 5” a public health priority., Deanna Barch and Joan Luby make the case that “thrive factors” are a key element of healthy human brain, behavioral and cognitive development.
The study is part of WashU’s ongoing research into how psychological and social factors in early development impact biological processes and change the brain. And it’s part of a change in thinking in the child development field as scientists have learned that much of our health is not just genetically predetermined but is powerfully influenced by the psychosocial environment.
“The thrive factor provides a solid foundation for healthy development. It has been underappreciated in primary care just how malleable the brain is to experience,” Luby added.