A decade of research on parenthood regret

Regret is a universal emotion, yet regretting the decision to become a parent remains a profound cultural taboo. Recent evidence establishes parenthood regret as a distinct phenomenon driven by counterfactual thinking. This review synthesizes a decade of research, revealing that the inherent irreversibility of the parental role makes this regret uniquely maladaptive, leading to a chronic psychological burden. Emphasizing the implications of these findings, we highlight how understanding parenthood regret can inform clinical interventions, shape social policies regarding declining fertility, and foster a more authentic public discourse. Recognizing this experience does not diminish the value of family life but provides a necessary window into how life-defining decisions and counterfactual thought reshape human identity.