Infants begin to respond to tickling with smiles and giggles between 4 and 6 months old. However, strong ticklishness, characterized by robust reactions, typically emerges around 6 or 7 months. This is supported by research indicating that a stronger ticklish response appears more often at 7 months than at 5 months (Negayama & Yamaguchi, 2005). While infants may react to touch earlier, the experience of ticklishness as we understand it develops later. The sensitivity and reaction to tickling can vary among individuals, and the intensity of the ticklish sensation may change throughout life. Some people report being less ticklish as they age, which is potentially related to changes in skin sensitivity and expectations (Reddit, Quora).
Factors Influencing Ticklishness:
- Age: As mentioned, the onset of ticklishness happens gradually during infancy. The intensity can vary throughout life, potentially decreasing with age.
- Skin Sensitivity: The sensitivity of nerve endings in the skin plays a crucial role in how ticklish a person is.
- Individual Variation: Some people are inherently more ticklish than others, regardless of age.
- Expectation: Our anticipation of being tickled can influence our reaction.
Development of Ticklishness:
The development of ticklishness is linked to the development of the nervous system and the brain's ability to process sensory information. The early responses to touch are reflexive, but the later, more pronounced reactions involve a higher level of cognitive processing.
