Triple P’s 2024 National Parenting Survey reveals rising stress, emotion and exhaustion

Australian parents are under pressure, a recent ‘pulse check’ survey has found, with cost of living, lack of sleep, self care falling by the wayside, and unending feelings of guilt. 

 

Over 8,300 parents contributed to the national survey, which Triple P founder and Clinical Psychologist at The University of Queensland, Professor Matt Sanders said provides a comprehensive snapshot of the key issues shaping the experiences of a large and diverse group of families across the country.

 

The Triple P – Positive Parenting Program survey reveals the stark reality of cost-of-living pressures, emotional distress, sleep deprivation and concerns about social media and screen time on childrens’ mental health and wellbeing. 

 

“The results expose what’s really going on for families in Australia right now, set against a backdrop of compounding financial pressure, an increase in mental health and wellbeing concerns, and the growing issue of school refusal,” Professor Sanders said.

 

“It shows how complex the journey of parenting can be, and how critical it is to provide families who are at the coalface of these issues with the evidence-based support they need to look after themselves as parents and feel confident in their parenting skills so they can raise happy and resilient children,” he added.

 

Key insights of Triple P’s 2024 National Parenting Survey

 

• Nearly 9 out of 10 parents have cut back on spending because of cost of living concerns
• 42 per cent of parents say cost of living issues have impacted their ability to be a calm and loving parent or partner 
• A similar percentage of parents say they are dissatisfied with the amount of time they spend on self care 
• Nearly two thirds of parents experience feelings of guilt at least once a week related to the time they spend with their child
• 83 per cent of parents with children five years and under feel sleep deprived
• 8 out 10 parents admit to yelling at their children 

 

“Self-care, self-compassion, and sleep are crucial skills that help parents to feel calmer, and to confidently navigate the ups and downs of raising kids. But we know it’s easier said than done. What’s important is that parents know they are not alone in these struggles, that looking after themselves is critical, and it’s okay to seek help and support,” Professor Sanders said.

 

Other concerns outlined in the survey include social media and screen time use, and protecting children from online danger. 

 

“These results highlight just how important it is for parents and carers to have the knowledge, skills, and strategies to positively guide their children’s use of social media and screens. It’s normal to feel in the dark about what to do, but having open and honest conversations with children about technology early and often can help,” the Professor added.

 

Despite the concerns and worries, 8 out of 10 parents surveyed feel confident their child will have a better life than them. 

                                                                                         

“What we know is that parents and carers are pervasive agents of change in a child’s life,” Professor Sanders said. 

 

“Parents and caregivers are critical to nurturing a positive trajectory for kids, so we need to support them with the skills they need to do this.” 

 

Delivery of the Triple P – Positive Parenting Program to parents and carers of children in Australia is supported by funding from the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care under the Parenting Education and Support Program. Parents and carers can access free, online parenting support 24/7 at triplep-parenting.net.au   

 

The survey was conducted by C|T Group on behalf of Triple P International and was provided to The Sector for review.