Promoting the transition to first-time parenthood

The transition to first-time parenthood is associated with various difficulties, including deteriorating relationships. The Promoting Parenthood Project in Ayrshire and Arran aims to promote the psychological wellbeing of new parents. One hundred and twenty three couples took part in an evaluation of four different models of antenatal classes. Psychological, relationship and pregnancy wellbeing were assessed, as were social support and coping. Both men and women reported growing dissatisfaction with their partner's role performance, although women experienced a higher level of anxiety than men throughout the transition to parenthood. Maximal relationship dissatisfaction appears to occur within the first three postnatal months.