Study Reveals Divergent Childhood Stress Patterns in Neanderthals and Paleolithic Humans

New research using dental enamel defects suggests differing post-weaning childcare strategies between the two species.

Researchers analyzed 423 Neanderthal teeth and 444 Upper Paleolithic human teeth for enamel defects.
Both groups experienced similar levels of childhood stress, but at different developmental stages.
Neanderthal children showed stress peaks during and after weaning, unlike Paleolithic humans.
The study implies that better post-weaning care may have contributed to modern humans' survival.
Findings highlight potential behavioral and social differences in ancient human species.