Dad Brain

A groundbreaking exploration of how fatherhood transforms men’s brains, bodies, health, skills and relationships

In recent years men’s attitudes to fatherhood have changed dramatically. But only now are we learning how profoundly fatherhood changes men’s brains and biology – and the effects these changes have on their health, skills, relationships and sense of purpose.

In Dad Brain, one of the world’s leading researchers of fatherhood, Darby Saxbe, provides a captivating account of this new science, packed with insights into how different approaches to fatherhood affect not only men but the whole family. Among its many revelations are that:

• Fathers’ brains shrink and their testosterone drops
• Fathers undergo a host of hormonal changes once thought only to affect women
• Fathers can suffer post-partum depression but enjoy better long-term health
• Fathers’ style of play makes their kids more resilient
• Dads who do more housework are generally happier

Above all, Dad Brain shows that men are wired to participate in care just as women are, but that many of these adaptations only come online when fathers invest time into parenthood: the more they do, the more they change for the better. Ultimately it shows a good father is not something you are, it is something you become.

‘Entertaining and fascinating … a must-read’ Eve Rodsky
‘A wonderful book … from an accomplished scientist’ Antonio Damasio
‘Masterful, science-packed, offering unique and practical insights’ Daniel J. Siegel

© Darby Saxbe 2026 (P) Penguin Audio 2026