Parents Report Higher Hope and Satisfaction Than Nonparents
Parents of school-aged children report higher satisfaction with family relationships and well-being, along with greater optimism towards the future compared to nonparents.
Parents of school-aged children report higher satisfaction with family relationships and well-being, along with greater optimism towards the future compared to nonparents.
WHY IT MATTERS – Understanding the benefits of parenthood is crucial in helping individuals make informed decisions about starting a family. This knowledge can inform policies aimed at supporting families and promote a greater understanding of the role of parenthood in individual well-being and societal progress.
THE NUMBERS – A recent EdChoice survey asked parents and nonparents about their satisfaction in general wellbeing and family relationships.
Non ParentsParentsRelationships with Family Members
37 percent – Satisfied | 10 percent – Not Satisfied
51 percent – Satisfied | 7 percent – Not Satisfied
Support System
34 percent – Satisfied | 13 percent – Not Satisfied
45 percent – Satisfied | 10 percent – Not Satisfied
Mental Health
35 percent – Satisfied | 13 percent – Not Satisfied
42 percent – Satisfied | 7 percent – Not Satisfied
Overall Wellbeing
33 percent – Satisfied | 10 percent – Not Satisfied
45 percent – Satisfied | 7 percent – Not Satisfied
Life Direction
30 percent – Satisfied | 14 percent – Not Satisfied
39 percent – Satisfied | 8 percent – Not Satisfied
Physical Health
25 percent – Satisfied | 9 percent – Not Satisfied
37 percent – Satisfied | 8 percent – Not Satisfied
BOTTOM LINE – Parents of school-aged children express greater satisfaction with their family relationships and overall well-being compared to nonparents. Additionally, school parents exhibit higher levels of confidence towards the future, with a larger proportion of them reporting that they are "thriving" compared to nonparents.
GO DEEPER –
Ed Choice – Survey Finds Parents More Hopeful, Satisfied Than Those Without Children