DYADIC ASSOCIATIONS BETWEEN ATTACHMENT, COPING BEHAVIOR, AND PERCEIVED STRESS IN COUPLES DURING THE TRANSITION TO PARENTHOOD

Abstract

The article presents the results of an empirical study of dyadic associations between attachment, coping behavior, and perceived stress in couples during the transition to parenthood. The birth of a child is considered a normative developmental family crisis accompanied by the restructuring of family relationships, changes in family roles, increased psychological demands, and the need for adaptation to new life circumstances. Particular attention is paid to the psychological interdependence of partners as a factor contributing to successful family adjustment after the birth of a child. The study involved 19 married couples raising at least one child under the age of one year. Data were collected using the Experiences in Close Relationships Questionnaire (ECR-R), the Brief COPE Inventory, and the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10). Descriptive statistics and correlation analysis were employed to examine the relationships between the studied variables. The findings revealed significant associations between the psychological characteristics of partners. Consistency was observed in several coping strategies within couples, particularly self-blame and behavioral disengagement, suggesting the development of shared patterns of responding to the challenges of early parenthood. The results indicate that the psychological functioning of one partner is related to the emotional and coping characteristics of the other partner, highlighting the importance of considering adaptation to parenthood at the dyadic rather than solely individual level. The practical significance of the study lies in the possibility of applying the findings in psychological counseling, family psychotherapy, and support programs for young families during the transition to parenthood.