Intergenerational relations, circumstances, and changes in mothers’ marital quality during two years following childbirth

Abstract

In this study, the researchers examined, from an attachment theory perspective, changes in mothers’ (n = 707) perception of the marital relationship over the course of the two years following childbirth. We found a decline in perceived quality of mothers’ marital relationship over time, as well as several significant associations between birth circumstances (assisted reproductive technology, first/non-first baby), insecure attachment, and certain forms of support from the grandmothers on the one hand, and marital quality immediately after childbirth and over time on the other. Some forms of support served as partial mediators between attachment orientation and marital quality. We believe that the current findings can assist in designing interventions aimed at improving the spousal relationship after childbirth and decreasing potential stressors for both parents and newborns.