They're commonly billed as a 'bundle of joy' – but having children doesn't make you happier, according to a new study. They found hardly any difference in reported happiness levels or life satisfaction between parents and non–parents. The study, published in the journal Evolutionary Psychology, contradicts the widespread belief that children are sources of positive emotions. Analysis revealed parents were no happier than non–parents, and overall levels of life satisfaction were much the same. They suggest that rather than long–term boosts to happiness and wellbeing, children instead provide intense but brief positive emotional experiences.

Source: Daily Mail March 30, 2026 14:30 UTC