The Stresses of Parenthood Reexamined

Written summaries of stresses encountered by 58 mothers and 54 fathers at the 3rd to 5th postpartum months were examined using constant comparative analysis. Four categories of stress emerged: demands of parent, spouse and worker roles; infant care; interactions with spouse; and interactions with other family members. Findings indicated stresses relating to infant behaviors and marital relationship remained similar to earlier reports whereas other stresses suggested a relationship with increased employment of mothers that has occurred over the past 2 decades. Planning changes in health care and policy changes that entail support, coordination of care and anticipatory care of the young family are discussed.