A Couple's Transition to Parenthood and Its Effect on the Well-Being of the Family System
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Authors
Cassels, Christina
Issue Date
2025-10
Type
Capstone
Language
en
Keywords
attachment theory , family systems theory , marital conflict , spillover hypothesis , interparental conflict
Alternative Title
Abstract
This capstone explores how to effectively support and empower couples during the transition to parenthood, a period filled with individual and relationship changes that have significant implications for relational, parental, and family well-being. More specifically, the paper highlights how supporting and educating couples at this developmental stage fosters healthier partner relationships, strengthens coparenting dynamics, and enhances overall family functioning, including the developmental outcomes of children. The paper underscores the role of counsellors and health practitioners in preparing couples for the psychological, relational, and structural changes associated with the transition to parenthood. Key theoretical concepts are reviewed, including attachment theory, parenting style, and family-of-origin influences, which shape individual parental identity and inter-partner perceptions. In addition, the reciprocal relationship between relationship quality and coparenting is explored, with attention to dyadic coping and conflict style affecting relationship satisfaction. Drawing on existing empirical research, the paper explores evidence-based therapies and preventive programs designed to promote family well-being. Finally, a framework for a psychoeducational couple’s workshop is presented, offering practical modules that can be integrated into existing prenatal education programming to better support expectant parents at a time when they are already seeking support and information.