Your attitude during pregnancy could have an effect on your child's ability in maths and science, according to a new study published by Frontiers in Psychology today.
Your attitude during pregnancy could have an effect on your child's ability in maths and science, according to a new study published by Frontiers in Psychology today.
Using data from Bristol’s Children of the 90s study the research is one of a series from the University of Bristol, that examines a parental personality attribute known as the ‘locus of control’. This is a psychological measure of how much someone believes that they have control over the outcome of events in their life or whether external forces beyond their control dictates how life turns out.
Those with an external locus of control would believe there is little point in making an effort as what happens to them is due to luck and circumstances, in contrast with internally controlled people who are motivated into action because they feel they can influence what is going to happen.
Researchers examined the ‘locus of control’ by using responses from questionnaires completed by over 1600 pregnant women who took part in the Children of the 90sstudy. They then looked at the mathematical and scientific reasoning and problem-solving skills of their offspring at the ages of 8, 11 and 13 assessed in school using specially designed tests. This study is among the first to link the prenatal locus of control of parents to the maths and science abilities of their offspring years later.
Findings reveal that mothers with an internal locus of control before their child was born (those who believe in the connection between their actions and what happens to them) were more likely to have a child who is good at maths and science. Compared to their externally controlled peers, internally focussed mothers also were more likely to provide their children with diets that assist brain development, to more frequently read stories to them and to show an interest in their child’s homework and academic progress.
Read more at University of Bristol
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