Tickling, while often perceived as playful, can have several drawbacks, particularly concerning a child's emotional and physical well-being.
Potential Disadvantages of Tickling
The primary disadvantage of tickling lies in its potential to cause discomfort and a feeling of helplessness. Lawrence Cohen, Ph.D., author of "Playful Parenting," explains that tickling can overwhelm the nervous system, leading to negative experiences.
Here's a breakdown of the disadvantages:
- Overwhelms the Nervous System: Tickling can be too intense for some individuals, particularly children, leading to sensory overload.
- Feelings of Helplessness and Out of Control: The involuntary nature of laughter induced by tickling can create a feeling of being out of control and unable to stop the sensation.
- Disguised Discomfort: The reflexive laughter caused by tickling doesn't always indicate genuine enjoyment. It can mask discomfort, and even pain, making it difficult for the tickled person to express their true feelings.
- Power Imbalance: Tickling can inadvertently create a power dynamic, especially when one person is significantly larger or older than the other. The person doing the tickling holds the power to inflict a sensation, whether it's enjoyed or not.
Summary
Tickling, despite its lighthearted image, carries the risk of causing discomfort, helplessness, and a potential masking of negative feelings. Understanding these disadvantages is crucial, especially when interacting with children, to ensure that play remains enjoyable and respectful.
