Mothers usually hold the fort in the family. They are the ones who remember everything about every member of the house, from their daily routines, to their allergies, to their dates and even the minute details of what they like to eat and what they don’t. While parents struggle to remember basic details about their children. This is a common pattern in most families. Recent research led by Dr Ana Catalano Weeks of the University of Bath suggests that cognitive work in families follows a gender pattern and this is why this happens. Read also | 2024 Ends: Digital Parenting Trends That Redefined Family Life
A study published in the Journal of Marriage and Family suggests that mothers carry much of the cognitive housework, or mental burden, of running a household. The study states that mothers handle 71 percent of the mental workload at home, while fathers handle only 45 percent.
Dr Ana Catalano Weeks, a political scientist at the University of Bath, said in a statement: “This kind of work is often overlooked, but it is important. This can lead to stress, burnout and even affect a woman’s career. In many cases, resentment can build up, creating tension between couples.’
Research results:
The study was conducted by analyzing data from 3,000 American parents, including a variety of ages, races/ethnicities, education levels, and family structures. The study identified two important categories – daily tasks aimed at the immediate well-being of the family, and episodic tasks related to maintenance and finances. The division of labor in these two categories reflects traditional gender roles that are followed even in the modern family. Read also | Want to know if you are a good parent? Ask your child this one simple question to find out
It was observed that when performing daily cognitive tasks, mothers had 79 percent of the mental load, while fathers had only 37 percent. However, fathers take on more episodic responsibilities (65 percent), and mothers – 53 percent of these responsibilities.
Single parents were also involved in the study, where it was observed that when it came to single parents, both genders handled all responsibilities effectively. This further proves that gendered abilities in the family environment can be challenged. Read also | Parenting 101: Beyond academics and grades, teach kids these key life skills to grow future leaders
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