Parents Report Higher Hope and Satisfaction Than Nonparents

Parents of school-aged children report higher satisfaction with family relationships and well-being, along with greater optimism towards the future compared to nonparents.

WHY IT MATTERS – Understanding the benefits of parenthood is crucial in helping individuals make informed decisions about starting a family. This knowledge can inform policies aimed at supporting families and promote a greater understanding of the role of parenthood in individual well-being and societal progress.

THE NUMBERS – A recent EdChoice survey asked parents and nonparents about their satisfaction in general wellbeing and family relationships. 


Non ParentsParents
Relationships with Family Members 
37 percent – Satisfied  | 10 percent – Not Satisfied
51 percent – Satisfied  | 7 percent – Not Satisfied
Support System 
34 percent – Satisfied  | 13 percent – Not Satisfied
45 percent – Satisfied  | 10 percent – Not Satisfied
Mental Health 
35 percent – Satisfied  | 13 percent – Not Satisfied
42 percent – Satisfied  | 7 percent – Not Satisfied
Overall Wellbeing 
33 percent – Satisfied  | 10 percent – Not Satisfied
45 percent – Satisfied  | 7 percent – Not Satisfied
Life Direction 
30 percent – Satisfied  | 14 percent – Not Satisfied
39 percent – Satisfied  | 8 percent – Not Satisfied
Physical Health 
25 percent – Satisfied  | 9 percent – Not Satisfied
37 percent – Satisfied  | 8 percent – Not Satisfied

BOTTOM LINE – Parents of school-aged children express greater satisfaction with their family relationships and overall well-being compared to nonparents. Additionally, school parents exhibit higher levels of confidence towards the future, with a larger proportion of them reporting that they are “thriving” compared to nonparents.

GO DEEPER – 

Ed Choice – Survey Finds Parents More Hopeful, Satisfied Than Those Without Children