Bonding and Symbiosis – Why do we Depend on Mutuality? The Logic of Interdependence

Overview:
We’ll examine symbiosis in nature and in human development. Why does life evolve in partnership? What does it mean to depend on others from conception onward?

Investigating the biological, psychological, and ecological need for symbiotic bonding. From microbiota to human-parent bonding, the drive for co-regulation, mutual development, and belonging.

Including embryological perspectives on symbiotic co-creation between embryo and maternal environment.

• Outcomes:
  • Understand mutual dependency as a survival strategy and a relational blueprint.
  • Explain the role of symbiosis in health, bonding, and social evolution.
• Key References:
  • Margulis, Lynn (1998). Symbiotic Planet.
  • Schore, Allan (2001). The effects of early relational trauma.
• Highlights:
  • Microbiome and symbiosis
  • Neurodevelopmental dependency
  • Mutual attunement and co-regulation