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Interparental processes mitigating risk for psychological aggression during the COVID-19 pandemic
Bonnie Woodward1, Molly R Franz1, Lauren M Laifer2
1Department of Psychology, University of Maryland, Baltimore County.
Summary
Pre-pandemic emotional intimacy between parents protected against psychological aggression during COVID-19. Stronger couple relationships fostered better coparenting, reducing aggression risk for mothers and fathers.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Family Studies
- Sociology
Background:
- The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted family routines, increasing parental stress and psychological aggression.
- Families with young children faced unique challenges adapting to new responsibilities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine how pre-pandemic interparental emotional intimacy and trust influenced coparenting and psychological aggression during the early COVID-19 pandemic.
- To identify interpersonal resources that promote family resilience during crises.
Main Methods:
- A sample of 146 couples with preschool-age children was surveyed.
- Interparental emotional intimacy, trust, coparenting quality, and psychological aggression were assessed.
- Statistical analyses examined the protective role of intimacy and trust on coparenting and aggression.
Main Results:
- Pre-pandemic emotional intimacy was linked to higher quality coparenting during the pandemic.
- Higher quality coparenting was associated with reduced psychological aggression toward mothers.
- Pre-pandemic intimacy independently predicted lower psychological aggression frequency toward both mothers and fathers.
Conclusions:
- Interparental emotional intimacy acts as a crucial resource for maintaining healthy coparenting and reducing psychological aggression during stressful periods like the pandemic.
- Interventions strengthening partner closeness and coparenting skills can enhance family resilience.
- Promoting trust and emotional connection between parents is vital for family well-being amidst significant societal challenges.
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