Prebirth predictors of coparenting experiences in early infancy

Abstract The aim of the current research was to identify prebirth predictors of coparenting experiences during the transition to parenthood. Questionnaires were used to assess 101 couples during the third trimester and one, three, and six months after the birth of the first child. Results of hierarchical linear modeling analyses indicated different predictors of coparenting level, linear change, and fluctuation for mothers and fathers. For mothers, coparenting experiences were associated with age, paternal education, concerns around child rearing, differences in child‐rearing philosophy, and reactance, whereas for fathers, coparenting experiences were related to occupation, maternal ego development, coparenting in the family of origin, and both parents' motivation to raise children. There were indications that mothers may drive the development of the coparenting relationship for both parents. ©2003 Michigan Association for Infant Mental Health.