Some Babies Are Naturally Fussy, Leaving Parents With Few Solutions, Experts Confirm
Why Some Babies Are Fussier: Genetics May Hold the Answer
By Xantha Leatham, Executive Science Editor
If your newborn cries incessantly while another baby settles calmly, genetics—not your parenting—might be to blame. A new study reveals that DNA influences up to 70% of how long infants cry and their ability to soothe, offering solace to exhausted parents who feel they’ve tried everything.
The Twin Study
Researchers from Uppsala University analyzed 998 twins (identical and fraternal) at two and five months old. By comparing identical twins (100% shared DNA) with fraternal twins (~50% shared DNA), they distinguished genetic from environmental impacts. Parents reported on crying, sleep, and settling patterns.
Key Findings
- At two months, genetics explained 50% of crying duration. By five months, this rose to 70%.
- A baby’s ability to calm down was also genetically linked (up to 67% of variation).
- Night waking, however, was mostly environmental, influenced by routines or sleep settings.
[Photo: Researchers studying infant behavior in a lab setting. Caption: Genetic factors play a larger role in crying as babies age.]
Dr. Charlotte Viktorsson, lead author, noted: “Parents should know their child’s crying is largely genetic. Efforts to soothe may matter most in the early months.” She added that while genetics dominate crying, settling patterns shift over time—environmental factors like parental soothing have stronger effects initially.
A Soothing Solution?
A prior study from Japan’s RIKEN Centre offers a practical method:
- Carry a crying baby for 5 minutes.
- Sit holding them for 5–8 minutes.
- Gently place them in their crib.
This “5-8 minute rule” calms infants by leveraging their physiological responses to movement.
[Photo: Parent carrying a baby. Caption: Holding a baby for timed intervals may help reduce crying.]
Takeaway for Parents
While genetics set the stage, environment still plays a role. Consistent sleep routines and calming techniques can aid challenging phases. As Dr. Viktorsson reassured, “It’s not your fault—some babies are simply wired this way.”
[Photo: Exhausted parent with a calm baby. Caption: Understanding genetics can relieve parental guilt.]
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