Virtual social grooming in macaques and its psychophysiological effects.

Allogrooming is a widespread, pervasive activity among non-human primates. Besides its hygienic function, it is thought to be instrumental in maintaining social bonds and establishing hierarchical structures within groups. However, the question arises as to whether the physiological and social benefits derived from social touch stem directly from body stimulation, or whether other mechanisms come into play.

Maternal cradling bias in baboons: The first environmental factor affecting early infant handedness development?

The most emblematic behavioral manifestation of human brain asymmetries is handedness. While the precise mechanisms behind the development of handedness are still widely debated, empirical evidences highlight that besides genetic factors, environmental factors may play a crucial role. As one of these factors, maternal cradling behavior may play a key role in the emergence of early handedness in the offspring.

Human-like maternal left-cradling bias in monkeys is altered by social pressure.

About 66-72% of human mothers cradle their infants on their left side. Given that left-cradling exposes the baby's face to the mother's left visual field (i.e.