martial outcomes Flashcards
review
Bogden et al., 2022
Forty-nine studies (97 samples of parents and 9 samples of non-parents) that fit our criteria are included in the meta-analysis. The data analysis was performed using meta-analytic techniques. Marital satisfaction has a medium decrease between pregnancy and 12 months postpartum, and a small decline between 12 and 24 months postpartum for both genders. In a similar period with first year postpartum, non-parents present a small decline in marital satisfaction. Moreover, the analysis of the dyadic studies data shows cross-partner associations, confirming that one partner’s satisfaction has a steeper decline when the other partner’s satisfaction presents a steep decrease.
how children affect marriages
White et al. (1986) examined how the presence of children affects marital happiness. Their study found that having children is associated with decreased marital interaction, increased dissatisfaction with finances and division of labor, and a more traditional division of labor—all factors linked to reduced marital happiness. Additionally, the presence of preschool-aged children and the birth of a first child were found to decrease the likelihood of divorce among unhappily married individuals over a three-year period, suggesting that children can temporarily stabilize marriages that might otherwise dissolve.
impact of marital quality on children
review- bogden et al., 2022- Marital satisfaction declines moderately for both mothers and fathers in the first year postpartum, with a smaller decline in the second year.
Parents experience a greater decline in satisfaction compared to non-parents, who show only a small decline over the same period.
Shared decline between partners – if one partner’s satisfaction drops, the other’s does too.
Key factors influencing decline include increased stress, reduced communication, childcare demands, and shifting relationship dynamics.
Practical Implications:
Pre-baby marital satisfaction predicts postpartum changes.
Couples with realistic expectations about parenthood experience a smaller decline.
Interventions should start before birth and continue long after to support marital stability.
Future Research Needed: Larger samples of non-parents, distinction between married/unmarried parents, and unpublished data to improve accuracy.
positives
While numerous studies indicate that the arrival of children can introduce challenges to marital satisfaction, some research suggests that children may also enhance certain aspects of a marriage and contribute to overall happiness. For example, the presence of children can provide couples with a shared sense of purpose and fulfillment, strengthening their bond. Additionally, engaging in collaborative parenting can improve communication and teamwork between partners, potentially leading to a deeper connection. However, it’s essential to note that these positive outcomes often depend on various factors, including the couple’s relationship quality before having children, their communication skills, and the level of support they receive. (Nelson et al., 2014)
To foster a positive marital environment after the arrival of children, experts recommend prioritizing the couple’s relationship. Strategies such as maintaining open communication, scheduling regular date nights, and sharing childcare responsibilities can help couples navigate the challenges of parenthood while preserving and even enhancing their marital satisfaction.
more positives
Parents report increased feelings of meaning and purpose in
life, and a sense of fulfilment in raising their children
(Baumeister et al., 2013; Musick et al., 2016) * 85% parents cite their relationship with their children as the
most fulfilling aspect of their lives (Taylor et al. 2007) * Nelson et al. (2013): * Compared to non-parents, parents report: * Being happier overall; more positive emotion; greater
meaning in life
gender moderated the relationshipincreased satisfaction and happiness for fathers only.
Why?
* Results mirrored in 2019 study (Nelson-Coffey et al)- the findings presented here suggest that fathers, but not mothers, are happier than their childless counterparts. Whereas fatherhood was associated with greater happiness and daily uplifts, along with stronger feelings of connectedness, motherhood was associated with greater hassles and lower levels of positive emotions. This information may be useful to families or individuals planning to have children to better understand and anticipate differences in the experiences of mothers and fathers and to cultivate more opportunities for mothers to experience the same rewards of parenthood as fathers.
