Recent Family News
Study finds new moms frequent Facebook
A new study conducted by researchers at Ohio State University has revealed that many new mothers are spending a lot of time on the social networking website Facebook.Researchers questioned 154 first-time mothers and 150 first-time fathers for the study. They found that 44 percent of new moms said their Facebook use increased after giving birth, compared to 27 percent who said it decreased and 29 percent who said it stayed the same.
For fathers, 31 percent said their Facebook use increased, while 19 percent said it decreased and 51 percent said it stayed the same.
"Given all the stress that new parents are under and everything they have to manage, it wouldn't have been surprising if we had found a decrease in Facebook usage - but that's not what we found," said study co-author Sarah Schoppe-Sullivan.
Researchers found the majority (98 percent of moms and 83 percent of dads) used the website to share photos of their babies and overall, they felt validated when friends and acquaintances would comment on them.
However, while many parents turned to Facebook for support during the first few months of their child's life, the study found that moms who frequented the site tended to report higher levels of parenting stress as well. Researchers say they may be using the website to find advice and get support.
"I think the most likely interpretation is that mothers who experience higher levels of stress are looking for social support on Facebook so they visit more often," said Schoppe-Sullivan.
While Facebook and other social networking sites may help new parents alleviate some stress, those who are worried about the financial strain of buying clothes, diapers, food and other baby items can opt to purchase used baby gear at stores such as Once Upon A Child instead.

