Image: Shutterstock
Did you know that parents are more content than non-parents? Well, it’s true.
Anyone who’s a parent knows that questions like “Why do siblings fight so much? What is a healthy way of bringing up your kids…” seem never ending. This is precisely why parenting is such a chore. Everyone has some invaluable piece of advice for you, and, sadly, most are rubbish.
But buried under all these misconceived superstitions and myths and smothered with the responsibility of being a parent can be sapping. So, here are five psychology studies you, as a parent, must know.
1. Non-Parents Aren’t As Happy As Parents
Research has often hinted at the possibility of non-parents being sadder than their parent counterparts. While you are secretly smiling and probably thinking you knew that already, a 2013 study concludes that most people are the happiest when they are parenting. So, let the love for your little one flow.
2. Don’t be a Helicopter Parent
It’s easy to get carried away with love for your child. However, you need to remember that there is a subtle difference between caring for your child and smothering her.
A study titled ‘Helping or Hovering? The Effects of Helicopter Parenting on College Students’ Well-Being’, concluded in 2013 that helicopter parenting led to depression, lowered levels of competence and autonomy.
3. Avoid hard-and-fast discipline
Around nine out of ten parents admit to disciplining their child, by calling them names and swearing at them. These instances only worsen a problem rather than offer a solution.
According to University of Pittsburgh Research Scientist Dr. Ming-Te Wang, “the notion that harsh discipline is without consequence – that the adolescent will understand that ‘they’re doing this because they love me’ – is misguided because harsh verbal discipline appears to be detrimental in all circumstances.”
4. Your child is important
Underlining the pleasures of having children, research finds that child-centric attitudes are beneficial.
A 2013 research on child-centrism and parental well-being concluded that child-centric parents were happier than their peers and derived pleasure from the simplest activities.
According to Dr. Claire E. Ashton-James, “The findings hint that the more we care for others, especially kids, the happier we become. Thus, the more ‘child centric’ parents are, the more happiness and meaning they will derive from parenting.”
5. Set a bedtime
Unsurprisingly, a study on three-year-olds concluded that “irregular bedtimes and low scores in math, reading, and a lack of spatial awareness for both genders, are all related. So, three years is a significant phase of cognitive development.”
So, “early to bed…rise” isn’t as important as 10 p.m. lights out every night.
And, there you have it. Five brilliant psychology secrets on parenting. Do you have any tips for our readers? Comment in the box below.
