Recent research indicates that parents often doubt their parenting abilities, doing so about three times a week, on average.
A survey involving 2,000 American parents of children under 11 highlighted numerous challenges and surprising moments they experience while raising kids.
According to this survey, many parents frequently described themselves as “bad” parents, feeling that way about three times weekly.
Conducted by Talker Research for celebrity schools, the study delves into the multifaceted nature of parenting, exploring how parents manage various tasks and the differing styles across generations.
Interestingly, while parents reported that their children could evoke laughter around 12 times daily, many also recognized the need for breaks from parenting duties, doing so approximately twice weekly.
Parents revealed some signs indicating when they require time off: feelings of unnecessary anger and moments when stress leads to tears.
In terms of the most pressing challenges, 42% of parents cited financial strain, while 34% pointed to a lack of personal time for self-care, and another 34% struggled with balancing work and family life.
Additionally, many found it tough to navigate advice and expectations from others (16%) and manage their children’s developmental milestones (13%).
On average, parents faced about two situations with their kids they felt unprepared to handle, and 45% admitted that their relationship with their children was more intense than anticipated.
Looking at generational insights, 48% of Gen X and 46% of millennial parents indicated that the parent-child dynamic posed greater challenges than expected, compared to 36% of Gen Z parents.
A significant number of young kids (41%) expressed dissatisfaction with doing everything by themselves. Furthermore, Gen Z parents (47%) were the most likely to keep their struggles private, while millennials were more willing to share their experiences (25%).
Those who had opened up about their challenges often felt judged, with 24% citing feelings of scrutiny from parents, 23% from partners, and 15% from friends. Consequently, 60% of participants said this judgment led them to hesitate about sharing in the future.
Moreover, 39% reported feelings of inadequacy whenever they sought advice on parenting or effective communication.
Participants acknowledged the need to ask their children for support when overwhelmed (33%), after exhausting their own attempts (27%), or upon recommendations from trusted professionals, like doctors and teachers (12%).
“Parents today are not just juggling their tasks; they’re growing and learning alongside their children,” noted Kristen Miller, education director at Celebrity Schools. “While feeling overwhelmed is natural, it’s vital to remember that parent-child relationships also bring joy and beauty. No one needs to navigate this journey alone; leaning on a community can turn challenges into growth and happiness.”
The survey revealed that half of parents (50%) felt an imbalance in sharing parenting responsibilities with their partners.
A closer look shows 41% felt they carried more responsibility for their children than their partners, with Gen Z parents and mothers (both at 45%) most likely to report this.
“Parenting is a community effort; I never did it solo,” Miller remarked. “Conversations about the challenges of parenting are becoming more open. Families are recognizing their power to seek help as we build supportive communities.”
Research Method:
The survey conducted by Talker Research included 2,000 American parents with children aged 0-11 and was commissioned by Celebrity Schools, taking place online from April 17 to April 25, 2025.
