Stop Telling Girls to Put Up With Period Pain [with Anthea Rhodes]

Can paracetamol during pregnancy increase the risk of autism or ADHD? Justin and Kylie Coulson unpack four provocative studies challenging what we think we know about pregnancy, relationships, gender differences and rising neurodevelopmental diagnoses. From a major study examining paracetamol use during pregnancy to the possible reasons autism and ADHD diagnoses are increasing, this episode separates research findings from assumptions and explores what the evidence actually tells us. KEY POINTS • What a large study found about paracetamol use during pregnancy and autism or ADHD risk. • Why men and women may appear to multitask differently. • How pessimism about relationships may affect young women's expectations for happiness. • Whether broader diagnostic criteria help explain rising autism and ADHD diagnoses. QUOTE OF THE EPISODE “Science isn't about convenience.” RESOURCES MENTIONED • Prenatal Acetaminophen or Paracetamol Use and the Risk of Autism and ADHD Among Sibling-Matched Cohorts, published in JAMA Internal Medicine. • Research published in Psychological Research on gender differences in multitasking. • Suzanne Venker's discussion of heteropessimism on the Modern Wisdom podcast with Chris Williamson. • Institute for Family Studies article on heteropessimism and relationship outcomes. • Changes in Genetic Contributions to ASD and ADHD by Year of Diagnosis, published in JAMA Psychiatry. ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS • Look at the research behind controversial health claims before accepting or dismissing them. • Discuss questions about medication during pregnancy with your healthcare professional. • Focus on finding healthy relationships built on kindness, trust and mutual support. • Remember that research findings are part of an evolving evidence base, especially when it comes to autism and ADHD. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When school leaves your child overwhelmed, anxious and struggling to learn, is pushing through really the best option? Justin and Kylie Coulson share their experience with homeschooling, the emotional toll of traditional schooling and how to decide what your child needs most. They explore social skills, independence, learning and the importance of helping children feel safe enough to thrive. Key Points How to recognise when traditional schooling isn't working for your child Why emotional regulation matters for learning and friendships The social opportunities children can find outside traditional school

What if all our talk about mental health is making it harder for kids to cope with life? Dr Justin Coulson sits down with educational and developmental psychologist Claire Rowe to unpack the rise of therapy speak, the dangers of labelling normal emotions as mental health problems, and why constantly checking in on how our kids feel might not be helping them. Discover how to support children through difficult feelings without teaching them to fear every bump in the road. Key Points How therapy speak on social media is changing the way we see ourselves and others

What matters most when you walk through your front door? Justin Coulson has spent years helping families build happier lives, and his work has now earned him a University of Queensland Vice-Chancellor's Alumni Excellence Award. But the moment that mattered most wasn't the trophy. It was the reminder that strong families change lives, and the most important work we do often happens at home. Justin and Kylie share the story behind the award, the sacrifices that shaped his career, a hilarious university confession, and the acceptance speech that left a room full of people in tears. KEY POINTS Why strong family relationships shape happier, healthier lives

Worried your teenager is falling behind or has no idea what they want to do after school? You’re not alone, and their future is bigger than their grades. Dr Justin Coulson chats with educator and careers expert Dr Jo Winchester about career pressure, gap years, alternative pathways and the changing world of work. They explore how to support neurodivergent kids, take the pressure off big decisions and help young people find a path that fits who they are. KEY POINTS Why your child’s ATAR doesn’t define their potential