Yes, ‘dad brain’ is real
Fatherhood triggers a biological transformation that rewires the male brain through time and practice. This process, termed patrescence, involves changes to brain structure, hormones, and mental health. Clinical psychologist Darby Saxbe has detailed these findings in a new book on the science of dad brain.
What changed
New details identify the process as patrescence and note specific biological changes like gray matter loss and testosterone drops.
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Research Confirms Biological Transformation of Fatherhood
confidence 90%Fatherhood triggers a biological transformation that rewires the male brain through time and practice. This process, termed patrescence, involves changes to brain structure, hormones, and mental health. Clinical psychologist Darby Saxbe has detailed these findings in a new book on the science of dad brain.
What's confirmed:
- Research from USC Dornsife shows that fathers' brains change after bringing home a new baby.
- Psychologist Darby Saxbe authored a book on the science of how fatherhood rewires men's brains.
- The biological and physiological changes in fathers differ from those experienced by women during pregnancy.
- Fatherhood is described as a biological transformation rather than just a social role.
Still unconfirmed:
- A father's brain can become identical to a mother's through child care in same-sex families.
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Research Confirms Fatherhood Changes Brain Structure
confidence 90%New studies and research from USC Dornsife indicate that the brains of fathers change after bringing home a new baby. Some men report increased patience and empathy following these changes. This phenomenon is referred to as dad brain.
What's confirmed:
- Research from USC Dornsife indicates that having a child changes men's brains.
- Studies show that fathers' brains change after bringing home a new baby.
Still unconfirmed:
- 26% of men say they are more empathetic, understanding and patient since becoming a dad.
- New fathers may experience mental fog.