A recent study reveals that great apes, such as chimpanzees and bonobos, utilize physical affection as a means to foster social tolerance and prevent unnecessary conflicts. Researchers observed behaviors like hugging, kissing, patting, and even genital touching among these apes. The study, published in the journal Proceedings of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences, sheds light on how these primates maintain strong social bonds.
Lead author Jake Brooker, a psychologist and great apes researcher at Durham University, noted that positive touch is not only used for consoling after conflicts but also in other stressful situations. The apes displayed heightened affection when faced with external threats or just before mealtime.
The research, conducted on semi-wild bonobos and chimpanzees in sanctuaries in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Zambia, showed that pre-snack affectionate behaviors led to better food-sharing dynamics among the apes. By establishing trust through physical contact, the apes avoided food-related conflicts, enabling them to eat more peacefully and for longer durations.
Although both chimpanzees and bonobos exhibited similar positive touching behaviors, chimps are generally perceived as more aggressive than bonobos. The study highlights that these two species employ touch to enhance within-group tolerance, suggesting a shared evolutionary mechanism to reduce social conflicts.
Interestingly, chimps engaged in a wider range of affectionate behaviors compared to bonobos, including higher-risk actions like gentle biting and placing fingers in each other’s mouths. This behavior was more common among male chimps, indicating the need for greater reassurance in more aggressive species.
Brooker emphasizes the importance of positive touch among humans, citing how it can enhance communication and bonding among friends. He suggests that societal norms discouraging physical contact among males may overlook the benefits of such interactions for emotional connection.
In summary, the study underscores the significance of physical affection in fostering social harmony among great apes and hints at its potential benefits for human relationships.