Why Am I? The Science of Us 4 - Dirt is Good, Dirt Poor is Bad (Episode Four)

In this fourth and final episode of series Why Am I? the message is clear — events we endure in our childhoods have long-lasting effects on the rest of our lives, both physically and mentally. The Dunedin Study explores nature versus nurture, deciphering the differences in people's biology, physiology, and mental states through the lens of differing experiences and socio-economic backgrounds. New discoveries show how abnormal inflammation as an adult may be due to a lonely childhood, potential ways to minimise the effects of schizophrenia, and how having a pet may help keep you allergy-free. 

...this whole question of early childhood exposure is raising a lot of interesting things. And I sometimes, rather facetiously, say 'Well, the best advice is when you’re on your way home from the maternity hospital, stop at the pet shop and buy a dog — maybe two dogs.' Something that'll stir up the dirt. And let your chld play in the dirt — it's good for them.

– Professor Malcolm Sears on lowering the rate of allergic reactions and asthma in babies

Key Cast & Crew

Susie Ferguson

Narrator

Mark McNeill

Co-Director, Producer

Irena Dol

Co-Director, Editor

Keiran McGee

Production Manager

Doni Karatau

Production Manager

Paul Casserly

Co-Director