The Transition to Parenthood: Stress, Resources, and Gender Differences in a Chinese Society

This study aimed to explore the parenthood transition in a Chinese cultural context. Three hundred sixty-four parents (201 females, 163 males) took part in this panel study conducted twice at 6 weeks before and 6 weeks after the birth of their children. Results showed that (a) in cross-sectional analyses, parenthood stress had consistent negative effects on mental health and marital satisfaction; (b) in prospective analyses, stress still had adverse effects on postnatal mental health or marital satisfaction after controlling for their prenatal baseline levels; (c) social support and marital congruence had beneficial effects on the parenthood adjustment; (d) compared to men, women reported higher stress, more psychological symptoms, lower marital satisfaction than men, but receiving more social support. These results are discussed in relation to existing Western theories and research, as well as the distinct characteristics of the contemporary Chinese society. Possible implications for community interventions are also suggested. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.