Interparental conflict in the perinatal period: exploring clinical and community populations

Interparental conflict is a normal part of the parenting relationship, however, when it occurs frequently with animosity or acrimony, it can increase the risk of negative outcomes for both children and the parenting couple. Research has identified numerous risk factors for elevated interparental conflict, including the transition to parenthood and mental health difficulties. Despite this, the experiences of interparental conflict in families diagnosed with clinical mental health difficulties during the perinatal period remain unclear. This study aims to address this gap by investigating whether experiences of interparental conflict differ between families who are, and are not, experiencing complex or severe mental health difficulties during this period.

This study compares reports of perinatal interparental conflict from COSI trial participants (ISRCTN18308962) accessing NHS Perinatal Mental Health Services in England with families without a diagnosis of mental health difficulties.

The findings indicate that overall experiences of interparental conflict differ significantly between the two populations. Additionally, differences are observed in specific dimensions of conflict behaviour.

This research provides new insight into interparental conflict during the perinatal period. It suggests that parents diagnosed with clinical mental health symptoms during this time may face a heightened risk of increased conflict, and its associated outcomes. Such findings are vital for early healthcare services, which could screen for these behaviours and implement preventative interventions to support families.