Parenthood, the Brain, and Becoming a Father

What research suggests

• Parenthood changes the brain: The guest says studies have found brain changes in fathers, including a reduction in brain volume. The excerpt does not explain the proposed reasons.
• Having more children may be linked with younger-looking brain-age markers in both men and women.
• Testosterone often drops in men after becoming fathers, with the guest citing a decline of about 25%.
• “Dad bods” may be appealing: The guest refers to studies in which single women rated that body type favorably.

The transition to parenthood

• The conversation notes that the U.S. fertility rate has reached a recorded low, citing CDC and Pew data.
• Becoming a parent can be difficult: it may involve sacrifice, isolation, and sleep loss.
• It can also bring a stronger sense of connection and purpose, and help people rediscover their priorities.

Advice for prospective fathers

The guest’s key message is that good fathers are made, not born—and that there is a lot a person can do to prepare. The excerpt ends before the specific advice is given.