Parent coping, a replication

Forty-seven pairs of parents of 2- to 3-month-old infants were asked to respond to a questionnaire to determine parent coping in relation to infant temperament and parent psychological responses. Mothers' and fathers' reports of helpfulness of coping behaviors were similar, but fathers reported more responses of depression and anxiety and focused less on coping by seeking social support and being responsible. Mothers who viewed their infant as of optimal temperament sought social support, maintained family integrity, and reported being religious, thankful, and content. Being responsible was more helpful to fathers who saw their infant as responding positively to soothing techniques and as smiling and laughing frequently, but less helpful to fathers who perceived their infant as being fearful and distressed by limitations. Fathers who perceived their infant as being fearful and distressed also reported more depression.