AN INTERDISCIPLINARY APPROACH TO THE TRANSITION TO PARENTHOOD (INFANCY, POSTPARTUM)
Abstract
Recent studies on the transition to parenthood have suggested that a traditionalization of sex roles occurs following the birth of the first child. However, it is not clear whether the traditionalization itself, or the lack of congruence between behavior and ideals, is related in some way to the ease of transition. The present study examines several variables in terms of their relation to the ease of transition to parenthood: sex role attitudes, ideals regarding the division of family tasks and actual behavior, ratings of infant temperament, and conflicts in balancing parenthood with roles both within and outside of the family. Twenty-nine couples expecting their first child were interviewed during the last trimester of pregnancy and again at four- to five-months postpartum. Differences were found between mothers and fathers in several areas of transition. Mothers reported more parenting joys than fathers but also greater feelings of parenting responsibilities and restrictions and childrearing anxiety. Fathers did not report any traditionalization of behavior while some evidence was found suggesting that this was not the case for mothers. Congruence between ideals and behavior was not strongly related to the ease of transition. Reporting positive feelings regarding several behaviors related to infant temperament was highly associated with an easier transition, but for mothers only. Conflict between parenting and other family roles was related to a more difficult adjustment for both mothers and fathers. The discussion of the results focuses on possible reasons for the lack of traditionalization of sex roles and the relationship between traditionality of attitudes and behavior in two areas: the ease of transition and role conflicts. Further, the relationship between congruence of ideals and behavior regarding the division of labor and the ease of transition, as well as the marital relationship is discussed. Implications of the study for practitioners working with expectant and new parents are presented.
Degree
Ph.D.
Subject Area
Families & family life|Personal relationships|Sociology
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