Studies show that holding hands can reduce pain and buffer stressful experiences. But its impact on brain activity suggests something more profound is going on. Q: I’m curious why humans hold hands.

According to psychologist Jim Coan from the University of Virginia, an expert on handholding, holding hands with someone you trust—whether it be a friend, a romantic partner, a parent ...

Kevin Sullivan: "Even if my kids stop holding my hand tomorrow, we will eventually hold hands again. But by then, I’ll be placing my trust in them." (Brett Davies/flickr) My boys still hold my hand.