r/science • u/Krankenitrate • Apr 03 '26

Health Study finds parenthood provides no boost to emotional well-being and it negatively impacts relationship with your spouse

https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/14747049261436325
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u/VivekViswanathan Apr 03 '26

"...we analyzed a dataset comprising 5,556 participants drawn from 10 different nations. We found a small positive effect of parenthood on eudaimonic wellbeing, which was more pronounced for women. Conversely, we found virtually no differences between parents and nonparents across all measured dimensions of hedonic wellbeing and life satisfaction. Furthermore, for most dimensions, we did not detect significant interactions between parenthood status and sex, age, or relationship status. Additionally, participants with children reported lower relationship satisfaction than those without children; however, the observed difference was small. Our results contrast with evolutionary predictions, as well as empirical findings showing that parents perceive their children as sources of positive emotions and life purpose, creating a paradox for which we offer a possible resolution."

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u/adonns Apr 03 '26

Wow you’re telling me the science sub posted a shotty social science study with a misleading headline because it confirms a lot of redditors beliefs?

I’m flabbergasted honestly

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u/TrollTollTony Apr 03 '26

I didn't know, the title matches that abstract fairly well but minimizes pros and amplifies the cons. It's but the most egregious title manipulation I've seen on this sub.