The Possible Trajectory of Relationship Satisfaction Across the Longevity of a Romantic Partnership: Is There a Golden Age of Parenting?. (October 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Meyer, Dixie; Robinson, Brittany; Cohn, Aaron; Gildenblatt, Limor; Barkley, Stephanie
• Is Part Of: Family journal. Volume 24:Number 4(2016:Oct.)
• Page Start: 344
• Page End: 350
• Publication Date: 2016-10
• Subjects: relationship satisfaction -- parenting -- children; Family psychotherapy -- Periodicals; Marital psychotherapy -- Periodicals; Family counseling -- Periodicals; Marriage counseling -- Periodicals; 616.8915605
• DOI: 10.1177/1066480716670141
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1066-4807

Abstract

This cross-sectional research investigation examined how relationship satisfaction varies as individuals in romantic partnerships become parents, as subsequent children join the family, and as children age. Results indicated individuals in romantic partnerships without children report greater, overall, levels of relationship satisfaction, more affectional expression than those with two children, and greater couple cohesion compared to those with three children. Of all the individuals in romantic partnerships with children, those who have a child between the ages of 8 and 12 report the greatest amount of relationship satisfaction. Research findings may guide counselors when counseling new parents providing information concerning what relationship changes to expect when they become parents and also to provide hope that as children age the couple may face less relationship stress.