The reason why we want to squeeze cute things is because when we re feeling overwhelmed by positive emotions we use a little bit of aggression to helps us balance out that high

The Science Behind Why We Want to Squeeze Cute Things

Have you ever felt an irresistible urge to squeeze a cute animal or a squishy toy? Well, you are not alone. Many of us experience this inexplicable desire to apply gentle pressure to adorable creatures or objects. But why do we have this strange behavior? Why do we want to squeeze cute things?

According to a scientific study published in the journal Frontiers in Behavioral Neuroscience, the reason behind our desire to squeeze cute things lies in how our brains process and regulate emotions. When we encounter something cute, our brain triggers an overwhelming surge of positive emotions such as happiness, joy, and love. The cuteness overload floods our system, creating a feeling of intense pleasure and delight. But here’s the catch: our brains also need to maintain balance.

To balance out the high levels of positive emotions, our brains instinctively activate a little bit of aggression. This aggression might sound negative, but in this context, it is a harmless form of aggression known as “cute aggression.” This phenomenon occurs when we feel overwhelmed by positive emotions, and our brain uses a slight aggressive response to restore emotional equilibrium.

The study suggests that cute aggression can be seen as a coping mechanism. By engaging in this behavior, we release the excess emotional energy, allowing us to regain composure and re-establish emotional balance. It’s almost like squeezing the cuteness out to regain our emotional stability.

So, the next time you feel an overwhelming desire to squeeze a cute puppy, kitten, or even a squishy toy, know that it’s not unusual. It’s simply your brain’s way of managing the surge of positive emotions. Cute aggression is a paradoxical response, representing a mixture of both tenderness and aggression. And contrary to what you might think, it doesn’t indicate that you love the cute thing any less. It’s just your brain working to keep your emotions in check.

This fascinating scientific explanation sheds light on our peculiar behavior when faced with overwhelming cuteness. It also provides insight into the intricate workings of our brain and emotions. So, embrace the cuteness and don’t be shy to give that adorable puppy a gentle squeeze. It’s just your brain finding harmony in the presence of extreme delight.

Source: Frontiers in Behavioral Neuroscience