Family dynamics, parental-fetal attachment and infant temperament

The purpose of this longitudinal study of families having their first or se cond baby was to explore relationships among family dynamics, paternal- and maternal-fetal attachment, and infant temperament. Data were collected fro m 156 women and 62 of their partners during the third trimester of pregnanc y. One year later, when the infant was 8-9 months old, 75 of the women and 30 of their partners participated. In a hierarchical multiple regression an alysis, after controlling for demographic variables, mutuality in the famil y was associated with greater maternal- and paternal-fetal attachment. Fami ly dynamics were stable across the transition to parenthood except for an i ncrease in role conflict reported by mothers. Sensitivity to specific famil y experiences by clinicians can provide assistance to families during these periods.