Haptonomy: Science of Affectivity by Frans Veldman (NL)describes haptonomy as an approach in which feeling, contact, and bodily experience take center stage. Veldman developed his ideas based on observations regarding human touch, safety, and affective connection.
According to Veldman, the way people experience physical and emotional contact has a major influence on their sense of safety, identity, and presence. Loving affirmation and safe touch help a person feel open, connected, and alive. Conversely, a lack of safety or rejection can lead to closure, tension, and withdrawal.
Haptonomy focuses strongly on the conscious experience of the body and the emotional world. This involves not only emotions but also how a person is literally present within themselves, in contact with others, and in the space around them.
The book describes affectivity as a fundamental human quality: the ability to be touched and to touch others in a safe and human way. Touch often plays an important role in this, but always in relation to trust, respect, and attunement.
Although the scientific basis for haptonomy is limited and controversial within mainstream science, the approach has had a significant influence in the Netherlands, particularly within guidance regarding pregnancy, care, bodywork, and personal development.The core of Veldman’s vision is that human recovery and growth do not proceed solely cognitively, but are deeply connected to bodily experience, safety, contact, and affective connection.