Parents’ cortisol levels predict quality of care toddlers receive

Researchers measured the concentration of cortisol in the body and the amount of testosterone in the body during pregnancy and six weeks after birth. Three years later, the scientists looked at the quality of care toddlers received.

Cortisol levels

Mothers with higher cortisol levels six weeks after birth can give their toddlers a higher quality of care. Fathers who also had high cortisol levels six weeks after birth actually provided a lower quality of care to their toddler. Fathers who did have low cortisol levels during their partner’s pregnancy were out of luck if they did have high testosterone levels. Because a high value also predicts a lower quality of care.

By: National Care Guide / Johanne Levinsky