Explore the science of modern parenthood, attachment, and partnership during our reflections from our interview with evolutionary anthropologist Dr Anna Machin. Dr Anna Machin is an evolutionary anthropologist, writer and broadcaster who is world renowned for her work into the science and anthropology of human love and fatherhood.  She is the author of the Life of Dad: The Making of the Modern Father and Why We Love: The Definitive Guide to our Most Fundamental Need. She is the lead scientist for the new dating app LoveJack.

In the coaching edit, Kate and Rachel go deeper into the science, and the practical implications, of what equal parenting really means, offering key insights for couples who want to parent as a true team.

Key Takeaways:

• Dads are naturally caregivers – Emotional detachment in fathers is socially constructed, not biological. Fathers’ hormones respond to caregiving, just like mothers’.
  

• Attachment matters – Children thrive with multiple attachments; strong parental bonds support resilience and pro-social behavior.
  

• Emotional intimacy fuels parenting – High emotional connection between partners increases confidence and involvement in dads.
  

• Invest in your relationship before baby arrives – Conversations about values, roles, and expectations build strong foundations for equitable parenting.
  

• Redefine gender norms – Challenge traditional ideas of motherhood and fatherhood; write your own parenting scripts.
  

• Social networks are vital – Romantic love isn’t the only important bond. Friendships, family, and community connections boost happiness and health.

Click here to download the free values activity

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Find out more about your hosts Kate Mangino and Rachel Childs.