What Does It Mean to Be Touch-Starved?

Nytimes reports that being touch-starved, or lacking wanted physical connection, has become increasingly common and can affect both physical and mental well-being. People who want but do not receive regular touch may feel lonely, anxious, stressed or emotionally depleted.

Research cited in the article finds that wanted, consensual touch helps regulate emotions by slowing activity in the amygdala and prompting oxytocin release, and is linked with improved heart-rate variability and reduced pain, blood pressure and cortisol. Experts tell the article that lifestyle changes — spending less time together in person and more time online — along with cultural differences and heightened sensitivity to power dynamics have made people more hesitant to touch, which can hinder flirting and relationship formation.