How is the transition to parenthood challenging for adults? Why do most parents think it is worth it?

New parents experience the exciting yet overwhelming task of getting to know their infant while meeting his or her needs for constant attention, affection, and care. They are greeted with new caregiving responsibilities, added housework, financial demands, loss of sleep, and diminished leisure time. Such pressures are associated with a reduced sense of well-being and self-esteem after the birth of a child. Many new parents report not feeling prepared for the roller coaster of emotions ranging from joy to frustration and exhaustion that accompany parenthood. Some research suggests that, even years after becoming parents, many people are unable to regain the happiness and life satisfaction that they enjoyed before having a child. Some theorize that parents' perceptions of the joys of parenthood, that "it's all worth it," may be a way of balancing the challenges, frustrations, and drops in happiness that accompany parenthood. For example, new parents, especially men, experience a greater sense of meaning in life, suggesting that, although challenging, parenting contributes to their sense of meaning.