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parenting

·April 12, 2025·5 min read

How Childhood Abuse Impacts Parental Empathy

A new study sheds light on how childhood maltreatment can lead to impaired empathy and increased risk of child abuse in adulthood. Researchers found that mothers who experienced abuse as children often struggle with emotional empathy and depressive symptoms, both of which negatively influence parenting.

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·January 16, 2025·5 min read

Decoding Favoritism: How Parents Shape Sibling Bonds

New research sheds light on how parents subtly favor children based on birth order, personality, and gender, shaping family dynamics. Younger siblings often receive more favorable treatment, while older siblings are granted greater autonomy.

Featured Neuroscience Psychology

·January 7, 2025·3 min read

“Sandwich” Generation Face Health Toll of Caring for Parents and Kids

Sandwich carers—those who care for both children and aging relatives—face significant mental and physical health declines, particularly when caregiving exceeds 20 hours weekly. A study tracking carers over nine years found persistent mental health challenges and worsening physical health during this transition.

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·December 14, 2024·5 min read

Moms Carry 71% of the Mental Load

New research shows that mothers take on 71% of household mental load tasks, including planning, scheduling, and organizing, while fathers manage just 45%. This imbalance often leads to stress, burnout, and strain on women’s careers and relationships.

This shows a parent walking with their kids.

Featured Neuroscience Psychology

·November 22, 2024·5 min read

The Secret to Raising Independent Kids? Let Them Learn on Their Own

Parents are 50% less likely to intervene in their young children’s tasks, such as getting dressed, when these activities are framed as learning opportunities. A new study demonstrated that emphasizing the educational value of everyday tasks promotes children’s independence and resilience by reducing overparenting.

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·June 17, 2024·7 min read

After-Dark Worries Fuel Kid’s Bedtime Battles

A new study reveals that children's bedtime struggles often stem from nighttime fears. While most families have bedtime routines, many rely on strategies like melatonin or co-sleeping that can exacerbate sleep challenges. Experts recommend establishing consistent routines, promoting sleep-conducive environments, and addressing nighttime worries with reassurance and comfort.

Featured Neuroscience Psychology

·June 12, 2024·3 min read

Positive Praise at Age 3 Reduces Problems by Age 7

3-year-olds who responded positively to parental praise had fewer behavioral and emotional issues by age 5-7. Children whose behaviors were less influenced by their mood also showed fewer problems. The research, involving 60 children, used toothbrushing videos to measure child behavior and parental praise. This study highlights the importance of early positive reinforcement in child development.

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·June 4, 2024·6 min read

Structural Abnormalities in Brains’ of Mothers Who Abuse Kids

A new study used brain imaging to identify structural brain abnormalities in mothers who commit child abuse. Reduced integrity in the corticospinal tract was linked to impulsivity and movement control issues. These findings highlight the neurobiological factors in child abuse, pointing to potential prevention strategies.

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·June 2, 2024·5 min read

Parenthood Shrinks Brain Volume but Boosts Engagement in Dads

Brain volume decreases in first-time fathers are linked to increased parenting involvement, yet also more sleep problems and mental health issues. This study aligns with earlier findings in mothers, indicating that brain changes might aid in caregiving. Despite potential challenges, active parenting benefits both fathers and children. The findings emphasize the need for supportive policies for new parents.

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·May 21, 2024·5 min read

Parental Distraction Negatively Impacts Child-Parent Interactions

A new study finds that any form of parental distraction, whether from screens or non-digital activities, negatively impacts parent-child interaction. Both digital and non-digital distractions led to reduced parental sensitivity and child engagement. This suggests that it's not the screens themselves, but rather the divided attention, that hinders parent-child communication.

Featured Neuroscience Psychology

·May 8, 2024·5 min read

Chasing Perfection: Unrealistic Parental Goals Causes Burnout

A new study reveals the negative impacts of striving for "perfect parenting" on both parents and children. Conducted between June 15 and July 28, 2023, the survey involved over 700 parents nationwide, highlighting that 57% of participants reported experiencing parental burnout.

Featured Neuroscience Psychology

·April 24, 2024·4 min read

Parenting Demands Make People Feel Lonely

A new study highlights the widespread feelings of isolation and burnout among parents, with 66% reporting feelings of loneliness due to parenting demands. The study, involving parents across various demographics, shows that 62% experience burnout, and 38% lack supportive networks.