Older mothers may raise happier children
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New research suggests that the children of older mothers grow up to be happier. The study says children will also experience fewer behavioural problems and have fewer social and emotional difficulties. Researchers from Aarhus University in Denmark looked at data from a random sample of 4,741 mothers. Lead researcher Professor Dion Sommer said we become, "more mentally flexible with age, more tolerant of other people". He said this could be the reason why older mothers do not scold and physically discipline their children as much as younger mothers. He added that, "this style of parenting can contribute to a positive psycho-social environment" as the child grows up.
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The findings of the research showed that the average age of the women while pregnant was about 31. Studies show that older mothers worry less during pregnancy and are happier and more positive about becoming parents and towards their children in general. This may mean they are more caring and supportive of their children. Older mothers also tend to be in more stable relationships, they are better off financially and they have had a better education. Researchers also found that children born to older mothers have a better language ability than those born to younger mothers. This may be because older mothers spend more time with their children and talk to them more often.
Sources:
- http://www.webmd.com/parenting/news/20170323/older-mothers-may-raise-better-behaved-kids-study-suggests
- http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/17405629.2016.1266248?journalCode=pedp20
- http://www.news-medical.net/news/20170323/Children-born-to-older-mothers-are-at-an-advantage-report-researchers.aspx
