New research in Social Psychological and Personality Science explores the emotional rewards of parenting. It finds that moments of pride and awe parents feel toward their children can boost psychological well-being. The study suggests these positive emotions help parents cope with daily challenges and find greater fulfillment in family life, a finding that resonates with Thai families focused on balance, harmony, and family values.
In many studies, caregiving is linked to stress and fatigue. This new work shifts the focus to the uplifting side of parenting. It asks why people choose parenthood despite demanding daily routines, a question particularly meaningful in Thailand where strong family ties and respect for elders are deeply embedded in culture.
The research team, led by a doctoral candidate from the University of Rochester, conducted three studies. The first used an online survey of 505 parents to measure how often they felt pride or awe about their child and how these feelings related to life satisfaction, meaning, negative emotions, and psychological richness—the sense that life is diverse and meaningful. Those who frequently felt pride tended to report higher life satisfaction and fewer negative emotions. Those who more often experienced awe also reported greater meaning and richer overall life experiences, a dynamic potentially meaningful for Thailand’s diverse family structures.
A second longitudinal study followed 130 parents over three months, tracking fluctuations in pride and awe against well-being measures. Early experiences of pride predicted later increases in life satisfaction, while awe predicted boosts in perceived meaning. These patterns held across different child temperaments, ages, and parental roles, suggesting broad relevance for all Thai families, including single parents and extended families.
A third experiment used a within-person design with 261 parents. They recalled three parenting moments from the past month: a routine moment, a pride-filled event, and an awe-inspiring one. Both pride and awe raised well-being, with awe markedly enhancing psychological richness and perceived life meaning. Awe tended to arise from shared moments or acts of kindness, while pride stemmed from a child’s talents or resilience.
The study also delves into why these emotions matter. Both pride and awe strengthen love and connection with one’s child and promote self-transcendence—feeling part of something larger. Parents who experienced awe described a slowing of time, savoring moments such as a child’s first steps—an experience cherished across cultures, including in Thai households.
In the Thai context, pride often relates to a child’s academic or moral achievements. Awe can come from temple visits, family ceremonies, or community volunteering—settings that foster shared wonder and a sense of spiritual elevation. The research suggests awe is not only about achievement but also about broader, culturally resonant forms of well-being.
Experts note that prioritizing moments of pride and awe could help Thai parents manage work–family balance in fast-growing cities like Bangkok, as well as obligations in rural communities. The idea of savoring meaningful moments aligns with mindful practices common in Thai culture.
Limitations include the study’s focus on parental effects rather than how these emotions influence children or the wider family. Future research could examine whether pride and awe spread to other family members and contribute to broader mental health in Thai households. Shared experiences at national events or local festivals—moments that evoke collective awe—may strengthen family and community cohesion.
Looking ahead, fostering emotional enrichment through parenting appears especially important as Thailand addresses rising mental health concerns. Global guidance, including advisory measures from health authorities on supporting parents, underscores the universal relevance of these findings. Within Thailand, government initiatives aimed at family welfare and child development complement this research.
Thai parents are encouraged to reflect on and celebrate their children’s achievements and to savor everyday moments of wonder. Schools and community centers can offer activities that spark awe—outdoor exploration, music, and storytelling—while families practice gratitude and positive reflection. Such approaches support individual well-being and a more resilient society.
Practically, Thai families may enjoy merit-making activities, visiting local heritage sites, or simply spending mindful time outdoors. Noting a child’s small acts of kindness or a creative milestone can yield lasting benefits for both parent and child.
In sum, as Thailand continues to balance tradition with modernization, the emotional joys of pride and awe in parenting offer a scientifically supported path to well-being. By recognizing and cultivating these moments, families can strengthen resilience and connection across the country.