#Community

A spirited debate is unfolding among parents and experts after a popular economist and parenting author suggested that families might benefit by saying “no” to kids’ birthday parties, choosing instead to reserve certain times for compulsory family bonding. The discussion, sparked by commentary from an economist and parenting writer, has raised important questions about the balance between family time and social engagement, with possible implications for Thai families navigating similar issues.

A groundswell of new research is challenging the widespread perception that gossip is simply a destructive habit, with evidence emerging that exchanging tidbits about others can actually benefit our mental health and strengthen social bonds. According to psychology experts cited in a recent Fox News report, indulging in gossip—in moderation—could be a surprisingly positive force in our daily lives, while cautioning that, as with many things, too much can turn sour (Fox News). Scientific publications and scholars are re-examining the nature and potential good of gossip, compelling societies like Thailand to re-evaluate how these informal conversations fit into communal life.

New research is reinvigorating an age-old idea: exercising with a partner can significantly boost motivation, workout consistency, and long-term health outcomes. Recent findings show gym attendance increases by 35% when people bring a friend, with participants tending to exercise longer and at higher intensities compared to those who go it alone (PhillyVoice). This growing body of evidence holds special relevance for Thai society, where communal activity is ingrained in daily life but modern urbanisation is nudging lifestyles towards individualism.

A viral question on social media—do parents have fewer friends than people without kids?—has set off a nationwide debate and inspired fresh research into how parenthood impacts adult friendships. Recent reports and expert insights reveal that while parents don’t necessarily “lose” friends, the dynamics, quality, and expectations of adult relationships undergo substantial changes once children arrive. This growing body of research and real-life testimony, which has resonated with many Thai parents and would-be parents, underscores the broader social implications of Thailand’s shifting family structures and the urgent need for supportive communities in the face of urbanization and changing lifestyles (TODAY.com, The Cut, Mother.ly).

A rising tide of research and real-world experience is challenging the notion that parenting should be a solitary journey. In a compelling new article from The Guardian, journalist Marina Lopes shares five vital lessons from communities around the globe—Mozambique, Brazil, Malaysia, the Netherlands, and Singapore—highlighting the profound benefits of communal parenting, intergenerational support, and greater independence for children (“Please, yell at my kids! Five lessons I’ve learned about good parenting from around the world” The Guardian, 2025). Lopes’ revelations echo a growing body of research and hold special significance for Thai families balancing tradition and modernity in a time of rapid social change.

Gisele Bündchen, the globally renowned supermodel, is once again in the spotlight, but this time not for her runway achievements or high-profile campaigns. Instead, her recent transition into parenthood has prompted neighbors to speak out about what kind of presence she is within the local community. Following the birth of her newborn son, discussions among locals have drawn attention to Bündchen’s personality beyond her public persona and provided insights into how celebrity parents can influence their immediate environment.

Exercise has long been known as a natural mood booster, but a new study sheds light on just how impactful walking can be in the battle against depression. Published in JAMA Network Open, this research reveals that walking more than 5,000 steps per day is linked with a noticeable reduction in depression symptoms among adults. This analysis, which encompasses 33 separate studies involving over 96,000 participants, reinforces the important role that physical activity plays in mental health.