There are many psychological reasons that explain our love for stuffed animals. It is not only the memory of the innocent, of our carefree childhood and our loved ones who bought it for us, but also the stroking of soft fur, which has been found to be highly therapeutic.
For hugging a stuffed animal, psychologist Corrine Sweet says: “It evokes a sense of peace, safety and comfort. It is innate in man to seek such feelings from childhood, but also throughout his life" (Lawrence,2012).
Studies have shown that contact with a teddy bear can reduce the adverse psychological effects of social exclusion and reduce anxiety (Jarrett,2011). As a result the stuffed animals, often given to trauma victims, including child victims of sexual abuse. Clinical trials have proven that the hug, finding a name and talking to a teddy bear provides great comfort and peace of mind.
To the police, fire and paramedic departments in America provide their officers with stuffed animals, because they are useful tools for approaching fearful children, lost or even injured.