In recent years, the number of dogs in certain countries has surpassed the number of children.
This increase in dog ownership not only reflects cultural shifts in society but also indicates an emotional transformation in how people view dogs as family members. But do these changes truly have positive and beautiful reasons, or are we facing a social crisis?
Professor Eniko Kubinyi, a prominent researcher at Eötvös Loránd University, states that there is a connection between dog ownership and declining birth rates, but this relationship reveals a deeper emotional and social crisis. Many individuals, instead of having children, have chosen dogs as affectionate and loyal companions, providing them with a sense of belonging and support. This raises significant questions: does this trend reflect a retreat from family responsibilities, or is there a genuine biological and social need for dogs?
In a survey conducted in Hungary, 19% of childless individuals and 10% of parents value their dogs more than any human. These statistics clearly indicate major changes in emotional priorities. Professor Kubinyi proposes a theory called the “escape of companion dogs,” suggesting that these shifts are a result of weakened social networks in modern societies, with people turning to dogs to fill the emotional gap.
However, this theory also highlights potential behavioral issues that come with this reliance on dogs. While dogs serve as emotional sources of affection, they can sometimes create problems such as aggression or over-dependence, complicating human relationships. Ultimately, Kubinyi emphasizes that dog ownership should strengthen human relationships, not replace them.
The conclusion of this study is that, in order to address this emotional and social crisis, it is necessary to reinforce family systems and human relationships while reducing social isolation. While dogs can be sources of love and companionship, they will never replace the importance of human relationships.
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