On March 11, 2025, the Bachpan Manao team had the pleasure of hosting Dr. Jodi Pawluski, a distinguished neuroscientist and therapist. For those of us deeply engaged in understanding the brain science of early childhood, Dr. Pawluski’s insights into what happens in the parental brain during this critical phase were both fascinating and enlightening.
The short video below captures a snapshot of our long and engaging conversation with Dr. Pawluski, where she shared her research on the profound neural transformations that accompany parenthood.
About Dr. Jodi Pawluski’s Work
Dr. Pawluski is an internationally recognized expert in the neuroscience of parenting, maternal mental health, and the so-called “mommy brain.” Her research explores the significant changes that occur in the brain during parenthood, especially how stress and mental load impact these processes. She also investigates the effects of perinatal depression and its treatment on neural outcomes for both mothers and their children.
In 2020, Dr. Pawluski launched the Mommy Brain Revisited podcast, aiming to bridge the gap between scientific research and everyday parenting experiences. In 2022, she authored Mommy Brain, the first book dedicated to the parental brain from a neuroscientist’s perspective. Contrary to the popular belief that “mommy brain” equates to cognitive decline or brain fog, her work highlights how these neurological adaptations enhance learning, emotional intelligence, and responsiveness—key components in effective parenting. She argues that these changes foster deeper empathy, allowing mothers to better attune to their baby’s non-verbal signals and needs.
Beyond Motherhood: The Father’s Brain
In her conversation with Dr Darby Saxbe, Dr Pawluski explores how the brain of a new father transforms during early parenthood. Studies suggest that fathers experience hormonal and neural shifts that increase caregiving behaviors, emotional sensitivity, and bonding with their child, as also a mental health risk. These findings highlight the biological and psychological dimensions of fatherhood and emphasize the vital role fathers play in parenting.
Dr. Pawluski is currently a researcher at the University of Rennes, France, where she continues to advocate for a deeper understanding of the parental brain, improved recognition of perinatal mental health, and better support systems for parents.
We invite you to watch our conversation with Dr. Pawluski to learn more about the remarkable science of the parental brain.
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