Many psychologists and parents are concerned that the time mothers
spend away from their babies while at work diverts the ability to
be sensitive to their babies' needs and to provide cognitive stimulation
to their children. However, a study has proven this theory wrong,
revealing whether or not mothers worked during their child's first
three years of life had no effect on their child's social and intellectual
development.
These findings bear great significance, for more than half of American
infants have mothers who are employed at least part-time during
their child's first year of life.
Deflating the Myth
To draw this conclusion, researchers analyzed 24-hour diaries of
time use from more than 1,000 mothers of infants. Videotaped observations
of mothers interacting with their babies--to measure how sensitive
mothers were to their children's needs--were also examined, and
mothers' homes were visited to observe the quality of the home environment.
Data showed:
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While working mothers spent less time with their infants than
nonemployed mothers, they compensated for it by spending more
time with their children on weekends and less time on other
activities (i.e. housework, outside organizations, etc.).
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Mothers who spent more available time with their babies (whether
employed or not) were slightly more sensitive and provided higher
quality home environments.
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Mothers' personalities, beliefs and family circumstances were
more critical predictors of their parenting than time.
Child
Development March 2005:76(2):467-482
Science
Blog March 25, 2005
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