Dad Brain

The New Science of Fatherhood and How It Shapes Men's Lives

De: PhD Darby Saxbe

Narrado por: PhD Darby Saxbe, Yael Rizowy

A groundbreaking exploration of the science and significance of fatherhood that shows great dads are made, not born

Over the last decade, we’ve learned more about the transformative power of parenthood—biologically, psychologically, and socially—than ever before. But while the experience of motherhood has attracted well-deserved attention, fatherhood has remained overlooked and, often, misunderstood.

Now, in Dad Brain, field-leading psychologist Darby Saxbe, PhD, explains how becoming a father changes men, from their bodies and brain architecture to their hormones and sense of purpose. Inspired by her relationship with her dad, Saxbe has studied fathers and families for over twenty years. In her first book, she takes readers behind the scenes of her new research and around the world, from hunter-gatherers in the Congo to contemporary suburban dads, and into her pioneering studies of how parenthood shapes men’s brains and lives.

Listeners may be surprised to learn that, in addition to altering a dad’s hormones and health (yes, men experience postpartum depression, and “dad bod” is real), parenthood can also benefit men. Dads who spend time with their kids sharpen their paternal instincts and even show more youthful brains in later life. Dads’ unique approach to play makes kids more resilient, and fathers bring new insights to workplaces and build better societies. Ultimately, fatherhood can help men discover a richer, more connected, and more meaningful life.

For fans of science-based storytelling that is also irreverent, funny, and personal, Dad Brain offers an illuminating, empowering, and optimistic new understanding of fatherhood that will become a must-listen for every parent.

A Macmillan Audio production from Flatiron Books

Will recommend to all!

Such great information and truly fascinating, I slowed down from 2x speed to 1.5x so I could take more notes.

Deeply engaging and insightful!

The author juxtaposes personal narratives with compelling science such that each illuminates the other. Brilliant!

Quick and concise

I’m a millennial dad to a 5 year old. This book not only gave me reassurance that I was doing some things right but also gave me ideas for new skills and new ways to think about being a great dad. I highly recommend it to all parents.

Brilliant and entertaining

I absolutely love this book! Until recently, the prevailing view seemed to be that women evolved to be moms, whereas for men, extensive participation in parenting was a cultural innovation. But that view is shifting. Raising humans is incredibly difficult work, and the evolutionary imperative to do it successfully shaped who we are, men included! Dad Brain interleaves fascinating science (much of it from the author’s own lab) and compelling narrative (much of it from the authors own life). That combination, and the warmth of the writing, made for an incredibly enjoyably read. Dad Brain also shines light on the nature of men, and what it takes for them to flourish. Competing narratives about masculinity are not new, but they seem particularly contentious right now -- arguably central to the culture wars within the US. Saxbe’s measured, rational, and empathic approach to the topic is a much-needed and timely contribution!

Long overdue

It's nice to feel like there is some support when it feels like no one cares whether you are a good or bad father. It's assumed you don't parent well and if you do parent extremely well your accomplishments are diminished. Somehow being a good dad became an attack on mother's. This is not so.