When I was pregnant with DS I read some research that concluded that babies who are given pacifiers or other means of external comfort are more likely to turn to external sources for comfort as adults i.e. alcohol & drugs. We haven't given our almost 7 mth DS a dummy or comforter of any type. He generally sucks his hands if he is trying to soothe himself.

A friend was visiting the other day with her 13 month old DD and she made a statement that it is healthy for babies of her DD age to have a 'friend' such as a teddy to help sleep & carry around.

Just wondering if anyone is aware of whether this is a good thing or harmful? The data I read referred to 'babies' and I can't recall whether it stated an age group but I generally understand that to be 0 - 1 year.

Curious.