**New Study Finds Facebook Mom Groups Increase Parenting Worries**
(Research Shows That Facebook Mothers’ Groups Spread Parenting Anxiety Seriously)
Researchers found moms in Facebook groups often feel more anxious about parenting. A university team studied thousands of mothers using these groups. They tracked posts and asked moms questions. The results show these groups spread stress.
Moms see other moms doing things perfectly online. This makes them worry about their own choices. Seeing posts about milestones, feeding, or sleep schedules causes doubt. Many moms feel they must compete. They feel judged if their child does something later or differently. Constant advice and warnings also add pressure.
The study also found moms spend hours daily in these groups. Comparing themselves to others happens constantly. This makes small worries seem like big problems. Real life struggles rarely get shown. People mostly share successes and wins. This creates an unrealistic picture of parenting. Experts say this comparison is harmful.
Lead researcher Dr. Helen Carter explained the issue. “This is a big problem,” Carter said. “Online groups promise support. But they often make moms feel worse. They see highlight reels, not reality. This constant comparison fuels anxiety.” The pressure to follow every piece of advice is intense. It makes mothers question their natural instincts.
The research involved mothers with children under five. It looked at groups focused on parenting advice. Many moms reported feeling overwhelmed after group visits. They felt less confident in their own abilities. The need to constantly seek approval online was common. This behavior linked directly to higher stress levels.
(Research Shows That Facebook Mothers’ Groups Spread Parenting Anxiety Seriously)
Parenting experts agree offline support is healthier. Real-life friends offer more balanced views. Talking face-to-face reduces the pressure to perform. Experts urge moms to limit time in these online spaces. They remind mothers that every child develops differently. Social media rarely shows the full, messy picture of raising children.