Parental investment refers to the time, energy, and resources that parents dedicate to raising their offspring. This concept is crucial in understanding how parents contribute to their children's survival and future success. The level of investment can vary significantly among different species, influenced by factors such as environmental conditions and reproductive strategies. In humans, parental investment includes providing food, shelter, education, and emotional support. This investment is essential for the development of skills and social behaviors that help children thrive. The theory of parental investment also explains why some parents may invest more in fewer offspring, while others may have many children with less individual attention.