Sex Differences and Conjugal Interdependence on Parenthood Stress and Adjustment: A Dyadic Longitudinal Chinese Study

Abstract

This study explored sex differences and conjugal interdependence in stress and adjustment of young Chinese fathers and mothers in the half-year period following the birth of their children. Ninety pairs of married couples took part in this panel study conducted twice at six weeks and six months after the birth of their children. Results showed that (a) Wives reported heightened stress, worse health and lower marital satisfaction than husbands, (b) a substantial degree of conjugal interdependence was revealed in significant correlations of health and marital satisfaction between partners, and (c) conjugal discrepancy in stress had an adverse impact on personal well-being and marital satisfaction of wives. These results were discussed in relation to existing theories and research, as well as the distinct characteristics of contemporary Chinese society.