Although having a job and taking care of children at the same time are hard, it is reported that working moms are healthier and happier than stay-at-home moms, especially when their kids are babies and preschoolers. A new study suggests that moms working part-time have fewer signs and symptoms of psychological issues such as stress and depression. Their health conditions are also better compared to mothers who stay at home.
The perks of being a working part-time mom
In the research, experts analyzed information from more than 1,300 mothers in the US collected by the National Institute for Child Health and Human Development. They wanted to discover if the work of the mother working part-time (under 32 hours a week) had more similarities to those who stay at home or those who are full-timers (more than 32 hours a week).
It is a fact that employment can improve people’s social skills and awareness. Therefore, in the study, mothers who worked part-time had a lower level of depression, a better health, and a higher sensitivity to their children. This may be explained as employment provides mothers with chances and resources to not become socially isolated and to develop their social skills as well as well-being. Besides the social aspect, mothers who work part time may benefit from the financial stability, the challenges of their job, and the feeling fulfilled on the job.
Compared to full-time working moms, part-time working mothers were less likely to have work and family conflicts and were more involved in their child’s schooling. They also did more housework and childcare. The study also showed the fact that a part-time job did nothing about increasing a couple’s intimacy.
The impact of maternal employment on children
The study also looked at the impact of work on parenting in three aspects:
- How sensible mothers are to their children
- The responsibility and engagement in their kids’ study
- The learning opportunities that kids can be provided
When it comes to raising a child, employment could provide mothers with tools, ideas, and strategies. Working provides mothers with skills on problem-solving, managing different points of view, and dealing with many different personalities, all of which play a crucial role in parenting. The research showed that employed mothers were more sensitive with their preschool-age children than stay-at-home mothers. Part-time working moms said they were as engaged in the kid’s school as moms who weren’t employed while they could also spend more time than full-timers. They also gave their kids more learning chances both inside and outside the home, such as reading books, visiting parks or museums.
Jennifer Fraone, who works as an assistant director of the Boston College Center for Work & Family in Chestnut Hill, said that working part-time provides mothers the best chance to balance work and home as well as managing the parenting. The study did very well on answering the question: “Are working moms healthier and happier?”. Yes, they are.
You might also want to read:
- Tips for Working Moms-to-be
- 8 Tips to Make Life Easier for Busy Moms
- Tips to Help Mom Balance Work and Family
Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
[embed-health-tool-bmi]
