When a person talks to their animal, they usually don't expect the animal to respond in a language they understand. However, this behavior is not considered unusual or a sign of a disorder. Research suggests that attributing human-like qualities to pets may be linked to higher levels of empathy in humans. A study published in the journal Pets explored the connection between humans attributing anthropomorphic traits to their dogs, their guilt regarding the pet's well-being, and their level of empathy. The findings indicated a correlation between anthropomorphism and high levels of empathy in humans. Additionally, children who are closely attached to their pets tend to exhibit higher levels of empathy that persist into adulthood. Some individuals may refer to their pets as "my son" or "my daughter," using a voice similar to how they would address a newborn. A 2014 study observed the cerebral activity of mothers when looking at photos of their children and dogs, some of which were theirs and others not. The MRIs showed that the amygdala activated when the women viewed photos of their dog and their child. The same activity was observed in the hippocampus, thalamus, and fusiform gyrus, brain regions involved in memory, social cognition, and visual and facial processing. According to Niwako Ogata, associate professor of ethology, brain areas related to attachment, love, and relationships were stimulated similarly. Another study published in the journal Animals found that pet owners who attribute human-like mental capacities to their animals experience greater social support from them. Therefore, continuing to speak to one's pet as if it were a child may be beneficial, especially if it contributes to one's well-being.