Maternal effects refer to the influence a mother has on the development and characteristics of her offspring, beyond just genetic inheritance. These effects can include factors such as the quality of the nutrients provided during pregnancy, the environment in which the mother lives, and her overall health. Maternal behaviors, like nurturing and protection, also play a significant role in shaping the offspring's future. These effects can impact various traits, including physical health, behavior, and even cognitive abilities. For example, a mother's stress levels during pregnancy may affect the emotional well-being of her child. Understanding maternal effects is important in fields like psychology, biology, and public health to improve outcomes for future generations.