The education of experience: Mixed methods evidence demonstrates the benefit of multiparity

Abstract

ProblemExisting quantitative data is conflicting concerning whether multiparous birthing parents (individuals with an older child(ren)) experience an easier postpartum transition compared to primiparous birthing parents (first time parents). AimThis convergent mixed methods study leverages the depth of qualitative inquiry to seek a clearer understanding of the way in which acquired parenting experience contributes to observed quantitative differences in outcomes between parity groups. This work can serve as a first step in planning for supportive interventions that effectively address the postpartum needs of both parity groups. MethodsThirty birthing parents (43.3% multiparous; 46.7% racial minorities) completed measures of postpartum functioning, perceived stress, anxiety symptoms, and depression symptoms as well as an interview inquiring about factors impacting postpartum functioning. Scores on postpartum functioning and emotional wellbeing were compared between parity groups, and these findings were merged with the qualitative data on firsthand parenting experience to clarify how acquired experience impacts functioning and emotional wellbeing during the postpartum transition. FindingsPrimiparous parents reported significantly: worse postpartum functioning, higher perceived stress, higher levels of depression symptoms, and higher levels of anxiety symptoms. Participants’ qualitative report of how acquired parenting experience impacts wellbeing suggests that experience grants parents skills, knowledge, and the opportunity to disconfirm maladaptive cognitions about parenting which allows for increased comfort and confidence in the parental role. ConclusionsThe practical and psychological resources gained from acquiring parenting experience during one's first postpartum period appear to be brought forward into subsequent pregnancies and protect against threats to functioning and emotional wellbeing.