Gender Differences in Parenting Practices and Concerns

A new survey by the Pew Research Center examines gender differences in attitudes about parenting. Here are some of highlight of the report in regard to gender differences.

• More than half of all mothers say they believe they are doing a good job of parenting. Only 39 percent of fathers say they are doing a good job.
• Younger mothers ages 18 to 34 are even more likely than mothers generally to believe they are good parents.
• For parents ages 51 to 69, men are slightly more likely than women to believe they are good parents.
• Mothers are more likely than fathers to say they are overprotective of their children. They also are more likely to admit that they “give in to quickly.” Mothers also are more likely than fathers to praise their children too much.
• Some 43 percent of mothers say they consult websites, books, or magazine for parenting advice. Only 23 percent of fathers say they consult these sources.