The new science of 'dad brain'
Research suggests that men's brains undergo changes, including a reduction in gray matter volume in the cortex, upon becoming fathers, similar to "mom brain." These changes correlate with increased bonding, motivation, and engagement in parenting, indicating brain plasticity and adaptation to caregiving. Furthermore, fathers experience hormonal shifts, such as a decrease in testosterone and fluctuations in oxytocin, which are linked to their involvement in childcare and social bonding.