You’re Making Your Child Depressed, Moms
Children of women who did not finish high school were twice as likely to experience a major episode of depression in early adulthood as children whose mothers obtained a high school diploma, according to a new study by researchers at McGill University.
The study authors also noted while a mother’s education affected a child’s chance for depression, the father’s education had no impact on his child.
Who’s To Blame?
How are we, as mothers, supposed to feel about these findings? Whether about breastfeeding, depression or eye color, it seems studies consistently find something we are doing wrong as moms to mess up our kids. It’s enough to make my head explode.
I don’t think researchers are specifically gunning for us. I do think, however, they are gunning for grant money and research dollars. While these researchers are focused on making science history, are they thinking about the impact their findings could have on those mentioned in their studies?
While the McGill study found a mother’s education was tied to depression, does this mean we as moms are responsible for a child who develops depression? Will society suddenly point fingers and blame mothers if their children develop depression or commit suicide?
A Solution
I understand research departments need to make sense of the world. I’m not arguing scientific studies don’t add to our knowledge and understanding of how our worlds work. But too many studies point out the correlations or problems rather than offering solutions.
McGill University is probably very proud of their findings. Hey guys! How about using that amazing brain power you’ve got there and offer up next steps and resources for moms. Just stop putting a bullseye on us and then walking away unscathed.