Coparenting and the transition to parenthood: a framework for prevention.

Area of Science:

• Family Psychology
• Developmental Psychology
• Public Health

Background:

• Coparenting, or how parents collaborate in parenting roles, is associated with parental adjustment, parenting practices, and child development.
• The coparenting relationship represents a modifiable risk factor suitable for family-focused prevention strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a comprehensive view of coparenting.
• To identify the period surrounding the birth of a first child as a critical window for coparenting intervention.
• To outline potential goals and mechanisms for coparenting interventions and discuss implementation challenges.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and theoretical synthesis.
• Conceptual framework development for coparenting intervention.

Main Results:

• Coparenting is a significant factor influencing family well-being.
• Early intervention during the transition to parenthood can enhance coparenting.
• Specific intervention goals and processes can be identified to improve parental and child outcomes.

Conclusions:

• Coparenting interventions, particularly around the birth of a first child, hold promise for family-focused prevention.
• Further research and careful consideration of dissemination are needed for effective intervention development.