r.l;.' ”'n V". <1 33‘ 9 ”3,, ”51111.03: .I“'.n.;"'f‘ 0 158' 'h 0.3 a ..m}’ ,1 11., ll 2}) .. 2W . W3 54‘... ff ‘1' 57‘; 6'": {V ‘ .,"01 l‘." ' "Y ,.. 1,2- :m , » V'L'.’ .. I. Q '1‘ '1’”: {I I"? _ 4f. ' PA r;<'\ ”’9 ‘ MILL“: ' I I! IL‘1‘.‘E:-""V. { 4 v, . 'FJ‘ ': - I‘J)‘.L—.‘ , - ~45” . d\ I: w‘.‘ V PM. Jaw? \ )n , . "_.. — - . ,) 'Jil‘l‘nul'" 4,“ f“ .:-.';.IJ§" . :s;,.1:c.m‘-.;.;«£-‘v.‘ ‘ -3." ’r‘ .J' ‘0 .a’ 4 1 2;; 9“? t #43 .fi .L é ,v )5 ‘i '6‘ LianAEEY Michigan State University This is to certify that the thesis entitled PERCEIVED CHANGES IN THE MARITAL RELATIONSHIP EXPRESSED BY FIRST-TIME FATHERS THREE TO FIVE MONTHS FOLLOWING THE BIRTH OF THEIR INFANTS presented by Sharon Marie Karber has been accepted towards fulfillment of the requirements for Masters degree in Nursing ALA,“ / Major professor 0-7639 MS U is an Wank Action/Equal Opportunity [urination MSU RETURNING MATERIALS: Place in book drop to “saunas remove this checkout from ”- your record. FINES will be charged if book is returned after the date stamped below. PERCEIVED CHANGES IN THE MARITAL RELATIONSHIP EXPRESSED BY FIRST-TIME FATHERS THREE TO FIVE MONTHS FOLLOWING THE BIRTH OF THEIR INFANTS By Sharon Marie Karber A Thesis Submitted to Michigan State University in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of MASTER OF SCIENCE IN NURSING College of Nursing 1985 PERCEIVED CHANGES IN THE MARITAL RELATIONSHIP EXPRESSED BY FIRST -TIME FATHERS THREE TO FIVE MONTHS FOLLOWING THE BIRTH OF THEIR INFANTS Sharon M. Karber Michigan State University College of Nursing A descriptive study of adult first-time fathers was conducted to identify perceptions of changes within the marital relationship three to five months following the birth of an infant. Perceived changes in the marital relationship were measured using an adaptation of Spanier's (1976) Dyadic Adjustment Scale. The 32-item self- administered Dyadic Adjustment Scale measures changes in dyadic cohesion, dyadic consensus, dyadic satisfaction, and affectional expression. A five-point Likert scale was used for the purpose of identifying the direction of perceived changes following the birth of an infant. King's (1981) conceptual framework was used as the theoretical basis from which nursing implications were derived for the understanding of study variables. Data were collected from sixty-six first-time fathers, aged 18-36. Data were analyzed using Pearson Product Moment Correlations, T-tests and descriptive statistics. There were significant positive changes (p < .05) in the marital relationship three to five months following the birth of the infant in the areas of dyadic cohesion, dyadic consensus, and dyadic satisfaction. There was no significant change in affectional expression. The results of this study indicate that first-time fathers perceived positive changes in the marital relationship three to five months following the birth of their infants. Nursing interventions should be directed toward supporting and reinforcing the positive changes. Anticipatory guidance should be provided to first-time fathers as the infant's growth and development places increased demands on the marital relationship. To my husband, Mike, whose love and continued support sustained and nourished me throughout my graduate education. ii ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS This research would not have been completed without the invaluable assistance of many individuals. I am grateful to Barbara Given, R.N., Ph.D. for serving as chairperson of this committee. Her guidance and support will be forever remembered. In addition, I want to thank my committee members, Brigid Warren, R.N., M.S.N, Linda Spence, R.N., M.S., and Patty Peek, R.N., M.S.N. for their contributions to this study. I am grateful for their expertise and suggestions. I also appreciate the skill and patience of Bryan Coyle who assisted me to understand and analyze my research. This thesis is dedicated to one very important person in my life: my husband, Mike. His support throughout my nursing career beginning with my Associate Degree to my present Master's Degree has enabled me to accomplish personal goals I onced only dreamed of acquiring. Through his continued encouragement, nurturing, and confidence in my ability, the completion of this research has become a professional reality. For all of his love and faith in me I will be forever grateful. iii TABLE OF CONTENTS Page LIST OF TABLESIOOOOOOO0.00.0...I.0..0..OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO00......OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO Vii LlST 0F FIGURES...0....0..OO..0.0...OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO..0.00....OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO. Vii LIST OF APPENDICESOO0.0..0.0......OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO0.000000000000000000.00...... ix Chapter I. INTRODUCTION TO THE STUDY AA A A- - AA - I IntrwuctionOOOOO00.000.000.000...IO...COO...OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOI0...... 1 Background of the Problem....AAAA AA 2 Purpose of the Study - - AA A A A 3 Research Questions- A A AA . 4 Definition of Concepts-AAA - - -- ............ 5 Assumptions" -A ..... - 8 Limitations ........ A A _ A A A 9 Outline of Chapters A AA--- - . lO II. THE CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK"................................. 11 Introduction. 11 Duvall's Family Developmental Life Cycle Framework....... 11 Family Life Cycle - Stage I AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA 16 Family Life Event. 23 Family Life Cycle -Stage II 25 Modifying Factors Potentially Influencing the Marital RelationshipA.. -------- A - A A A -A 31 Theoretical Framework for Nursing Process Model............. 37 Explication of the Model for Marital Relationship Changes...--A - - AA 1+1 SummaryAAA AA AAAAAAA . -A AA 44 iv Chapter Page 111. REVIEW OF THE LITERATURE 46 Introduction... #6 Transition to Parenthood. #6 Childbearing Family - Changes in Marital Satisfaction.... 57 Childbearing Family - Changes in Marital Relationship... 62 Childbearing Family - Changes in Companionship........... 7O Childbearing Family - Changes in Affection................... 75 Modifying Variables Potentially Influencing Perceptions of the Marital Relationship....................... 77 ' summarYOOOOOOOOOOO0.00000000000000000.00.0.00..OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOCOO... 80 Iv. METHODOLOGYOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO0.00.00...0.000.000.0000.0... 83 Overvxew 83 Research Questions 83 Sample 85 Data Collection Procedure 86 Operational Definitions of Variables.............................. 9O Modifying Variables.. 92 Human Rights Protection 95 Procedure for Data Analysis 95 Reliability and Validity of the Dyadic Adjustment Scale 97 summarYOOO0.0.00.00.00.0000000000000000000000.00.00.00.000000000000000000000 99 V. DATA ANALYSIS 100 Overvrew 100 Research Questions 100 Descriptive Findings of the Study Sample....................... 101 Modifying Variables 102 Reliability of the Dyadic Adjustment Scale 110 Data Presentation for Research Questions..................... 112 Research Question 1 112 Research Question 2 116 gem Correlations between Dyadic Adjustment Scale and Potential MOdiinng variableSOO0......OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO Correlations between Modifying Variables...“m.............. sum marYOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO0......OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO VI. SUMMARY AND CONCLUSIONS...................................... Overvrew Summary of Findings. Review of Previous Chapters........................................ Descriptors of the Study Sample Sociodemographic Characteristics............................... Additional Findings of the Sample............................... Conclusions of the Research Research Questions Limitations of the Study Implicatons. Implications for Nursing Practice................................ Implications for Nursing Education.............................. Implications for Nursing Research.. sum marYOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOCOO0.00.00.00.00.COO000......OOOOOOOOOOOOIOOOOOOOOOO REFERENCES...O...0.00000000000000000000000000000000000...0..0......00.000000000000000... vi 119 120 121 124 124 12'! 125 128 128 132 135 137 I48 150 150 I54 156 159 160 LIST OF FIGURES Stage Critical Tasks in the Family Life Cycle Relationship Between Duvall's Family Tasks and Spaniers Components.-.A - - -- - Study Variables in the Family Life Cycle Schematic Process of Human Interaction........................... Nursing Intervention Model for the First-Time Father.OO000......0.00.00...OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOI Revised Nursing Intervention Model for the First-Time FatherA.---------_--- ........... vii 19 32 39 45 Table 10 11 LIST OF TABLES Number and Percentage of Subjects by Age, Years Married, Racial or Ethnic Background.................. Number and Percentage of Subjects by Annual Family Income Levels.. Number and Percentage of Subjects by Educational Level... Number and Percentage of Subjects by Occupational Level Number and Percentage of Subjects by Difficulty Living on Present Income and Work Status...... Number and Percentage of Subjects Responding to Complications of Labor and Delivery-_.-- -- - - - _ Reliabilities of the Dyadic Adjustment Scale and comwnent SUbscaleSOOOOOOOOOO0..0.0.0...OOOOOOOOOO...OOOOOOOOOOOOOO... Correlation Matrix: Intercorrelations of Dyadic Adjustment Scales Utilized in Present Study................. Perceived Changes in the Marital Relationship.................. Correlations between Dyadic Adjustment Scale and Potential MOdiinng variableSOOOO0......OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO0.0.0... Pearson Product Moment Correlations between Potential MOdiinng variableSOOOO0.0000IOOOOIOOOIOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO viii 103 104 105 106 108 109 111 112 113 119 122 LIST OF APPENDICES Apgndix A Dyadic Adjustment scaleOOOOOOOOOOOO0.0.0....O0..0....OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO SOdOdemographic QuestionnaireOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO0.000000000000000000. UCRIHS Approval LetterOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO0.00.00.00.00.00000000000000000000 Letter Of Explanation.0..00....OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO00.0.0000...OOOOOOOOOOOOOOO Telephone conversation FormatOOOOOOOOOOOOOOCOO...OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO... Parficpmt's LogOOOOOOOOOOO0..C0.0..OOOOOOOOOOOOOO0.00.00.00.000.0.0.0....COO... ix Page xiv xvi xvii xviii xix CHAPTER I THE PROBLEM Introduction When a couple marries, a family is formed and a marital relationship is established. Family literature suggests that the joining of two people in marriage is accompanied by feelings of love and commitment of one person to another. As a newly created family embarks on a life together, a husband and wife assume new roles that carry certain rights and responsibilities. To the extent that each fulfills the expectations of the other, the marriage is assumed' to be mutually satisfying. Eventually a couple may mutually decide to have a child and the birth of their infant is viewed as a major family life event. The relationship of the couple following this event has been the subject of much research since the 1950's (LeMaster, 1957; Dyer, 1963; Hobbs, 1965, 1968; Feldman, 1971; Russell, 1974; Lake, 1974; Hobbs and Cole, 1976; Waldron and Routh, 1982; Belsky, 1981). Early investigation concluded that the assumption of parental roles created a crisis in the marital relationship (LeMaster, 1957; Dyer, 1963, 1965). Other investigators have questioned this conclusion (Hobbs, 1965, 1968; Hobbs and Cole, 1976; Russell, 1974) and have stressed the gratifications and positive consequences of becoming a parent. Regardless of the differences among researchers about the impact of the birth of a first child on a couple's relationship, there is general consensus that the addition of an infant into a family necessitates change that may affect the marital relationship. To better understand changes in the marital relationship following the birth of an infant, Duvall's family developmental framework will be used to analyze the changes the husband experiences during the transition from stage I to stage 11. Background of the Problem Marital relationship changes following the birth of an infant have been the subject of much research. The focus of previous research, however, has been on mothers' perceptions of these changes and how the roles of mother, wife and worker influence the views of women. Additionally, in many investigations, perceptions of changes in the marital relationship have been assessed six to ten weeks following the infant's birth. Research suggests that a "baby honeymoon" period exists during the first three months following the infant's birth and that changes in the marital relationship which occur may be masked by the novelty associated with parenthood (Miller and Sollie, 1980; Yuan, 1981). Yet another factor which has been suggested as problematic when identifying individuals' perceptions of changes in a marital relationship involves joint interviews. Because the couple was interviewed together, they may not have voiced their true feelings about the extent of changes they perceived (LeMaster, 1957; Lake, 1974). The majority of past studies also have relied on retrospective research designs which may have influenced the accuracy of recall related to the severity of changes experienced (LeMaster, 1957; Dyer, 1963; Hobbs, 1965, 1968; Russell, 197“. Many of these problems have yet to be addressed, but within the past ten years researchers have begun to focus on husbands' perceptions of the their wives' pregnancy, labor and delivery, and involvement with the infant. Limited investigation, however, has been conducted regarding fathers' perceptions of marital relationship changes three to five months following the birth of the infant. The time period selected for this investigation will avoid the potential "baby honeymoon" effect on the perceptions of changes in me marital relationship. Purpose of the Stug The identification of the problem selected has its source in several findings and conclusions. First, there is a lack of nursing research describing a first-time father's perceptions of changes in the marital relationship three to five months following the birth of his infant. A broadened knowledge base regarding these perceptions can assist health care providers to more effectively deal with the first-time fathers and help to enhance the marital couple's relationship. Secondly, there is a need to assess perceptions of changes in the marital relationship without the potential effect of the "baby honeymoon" period influencing research findings. Selecting a time frame after the "baby honeymoon" should control the effect of this potential variable from influencing perceptions of changes in the marital relationship. Thus, the purpose of this study is to 1m describe a first-time father's perceptions of changes in the marital relationship three to five months following the birth of his infant. Specifically, the research questions to be addressed are: Major Question 1. Does the first-time father perceive a change in the marital relationship three to five months following the birth of his infant? Sub-research Qiestions a. b. C. Does the first-time father perceive a change in dyadic cohesion three to five months following the birth of his infant? Does the first-time father perceive a change in dyadic consensus three to five monflis following the birth of his infant? Does the first-time father perceive a change in dyadic satisfaction three to five months following the birth of his 'mfant? Does the first-time father perceive a change in affectional expression three to five months following the birth of his infant? Major Qiestion: 2. 1f the first-time father perceives a change in the marital relationship three to five months following the birth of his infant, what is the direction of this change? Sub-research Questions: a. If the first-time father perceives a change in dyadic cohesion three to five months following the birth of his infant, what is the direction of the change? If the first-time father perceives a change in dyadic consensus three to five months following the birth of his infant, what is the direction of the change? c. If the first-time father perceives a change in dyadic satisfaction three to five months following the birth of his infant, what is the direction of the change? d. If the first-time father perceives a change in affectional expression three to five monms following the birth of his infant, what is the direction of the change? Definition of Concepts First-Time Father is defined as any married male between 18-35 years of age who has become a planned biologic father for the first time. He is the socially defined guardian, nurturer, caretaker, and protector of an infant between three to five months of age and maintains an ongoing intimate relationship with the infant's biologic mother. He has no other children who live in the household. Percgption is defined as the personal and subjective way a first-time father views experiences. It is "a process of organizing, interpreting, and transforming sensory data and memory; it is a process of human transactions with the environment and gives meaning to one's experience and influences one's behavior" (King, 1981, p. 24). Family Life Event is defined as a normative family developmental experience which creates changes in the marital relationship. For the purpose of this study, the birth of an infant is considered a family life event. Marital Relationship is defined as an ongoing affiliation characterized by interactions and/or feelings between two individuals who are bound by a legal marriage contract and living together. Components identified in the literature which constitute a marital relationship are as follows. Exchanges of affection which have been expressed and labeled in a variety of ways, have been found to contribute to marital relationship bonding (Burr, 1973); effective communication (Lewis and Spanier, 1979); and emotional support (Ammons and Stinnet, 1980). Research has also documented positive relationships between marital satisfaction and respect, esteem, and prestige (Hicks and Platt, 1970; Lewis and Spanier, 1979). Competence in role behavior has also been found to be related to satisfaction with a marital relationship (Chadwick, et al., 1976; Jorgensen, 1979). Provision of services has also been identified as an important dimension in the marital relationship. Westley and Epstein (1969) identified the importance of shared responsibilities, cooperation and working together as a dimension of the marital relationship. Sexual intimacy among couples continues to effect the marital relationship (Ammons and Stinnet, 1980; Lewis and Spanier, 1979; Synder, 1979). Communication behaviors of couples have consistently been found to affect the marital relationship. Synder (1979) found affective and problem solving communication as valued dimensions in marital satisfaction. Companionship (amount and quality of shared time the couple spend together) has been identified as a factor impacting the marital relationship. Community involvement has also been identified as an important dimension associated with the quality of the marital relationship (Holman, 1981). Emotional maturity is considered to be an important variable for evaluating an individual's potential for making a successful adjustment to marriage (Dean, 1966; Landis and Landis, 1973; Cole, Cole and Dean, 1980). Religiosity has been reported to have a positive relationship to marital stability (Babchuk, et a1., 1967; Shrum, 1980). Glenn and Weaver's (1978) study identified church attendance as the strongest predictor of marital happiness. Based on a review of the literature about the components that comprise the concept marital relationship, four components identified by Spanier were selected to study. Components of a Marital Relationship 1. Dyadic Cohesion is defined as the mutual engagement in activities such as laughing, discussions, working together on a project or joining together in outside interests. 2. Dyadic Satisfaction is defined as positive feelings about the relationship such as feelings of pleasure or contentment with the alliance along with no regret of marriage and no desire to terminate the marriage. 3. madic Consensus is defined as the agreement between a couple about matters of importance to them and to the maintenance of their relationship. Issues about which consensus may exist might include finances, the division of labor, and the use of leisure time. ti. Affectional Expression is defined as the demonstrations of positive emotion toward a spouse that suggest love and caring, and the engagement in sexual relations. Modifying Variables The researcher acknowledges the following variables which may affect the outcome of the study. Modifying variables for which data were collected include sociodemographic variables (age of father, age of infant, education, occupation, income, race, number of years married). Other modifying variables include prematurity of infant and complications of labor and/or delivery. Assumptions it this study, the researcher is making the following assumptions: 1. The components of a marital relationship selected to study represent areas that may be perceived to change. 2. The changes in the marital relationship expressed by each first-time father on the questionnaire will reflect honest answers. 4. Each first-time father who retums the questionnaire will be able to read and respond to the items. Each first-time father is able to recall his perceptions of changes in the marital relationship. Limitations In this study, the researcher is acknowledging the following limitations: 4. The quality with which the couple accomplished stage ltasks was not assessed. Closed-ended questions may not elicit the full range of first-time fathers' perceptions of changes in their marital relationships. Data will be collected at one point in time. First-time fathers' expressed changes in their marital relationship may occur prior to or subsequent to the three to five months used as the frame of reference for the study. The subjects who agreed to participate in the study may be different from those who refused. Therefore, the findings may not be representative of all first-time fathers' perceptions of changes in their marital relationships. 10 5. A small convenience sample was used, thereby limiting the generalizability of findings. 6. Due to complexity of family relationships, the thirty-two item 'mstrument may not adequately tap the concepts under study. Overview of Cl'iapters This research study is presented in six chapters. h Chapter I, the statement of the problem, the background of the problem, purpose of the study, research questions, definition of concepts, and assumptions and limitations are presented. The conceptual framework is discussed and related to nursing theory and nursing process in Chapter 11. 11 Chapter III, pertinent literature and research concerning the problems are presented. The research design, methodology, and data analytic techniques are described in Chapter IV. In Chapter V, the research data are presented, analyzed, and discussed in relation to the research questions. The summary of research findings, conclusions, and implications for nursing are discussed in Chapter VI. CHAPTER II CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK Introduction Presented in this chapter is a conceptual framework integrating principles of the Family Developmental Life Cycle and nursing theory as they pertain to marital and childbearing families. The use of the Family Developrruental Life Cycle and nursing theory provide a framework for examining first-time fathers' perceptions of changes in the marital relationship three to five months following their infants' birth. Discussion of the conceptual framework will begin with an introduction and overview of the Family Developmental Life Cycle. This overview will be followed by a description of two stages in the Family Life Cycle—Stage I, the Marital Family, and Stage II, the Childbearing Family- -and a discussion of the way in which components of the marital relationship under investigation are manifest at the different stages. Next, modifying variables potentially influencing perceptions of the marital relationship will be discussed. A nursing theory and a nursing process model are presented in the last section as well as an explication of the model for nursing practice as it applies to this study. DUVALL'S FAMILY DEVELOPMENTAL LIFE CYCLE FRAMEWORK The framework of the Family Developmental Life Cycle can provide an understanding about perceptions of changes in the marital relationship 11 12 following the birth of an infant for several reasons. First, this framework emphasizes the sequential changes families experience with regard to members, events, and stages. The framework discusses how family changes occur as additional members are added. Also, the life cycle framework identifies life events that families experience as they grow and develop. Many theories and empirical studies exist that deal with the family (exchange theory, interactionist theory) and several scholars have identified different stages through which families progress (Rodgers, 1960; Hill, 1963). For the purpose of this study, however, the framework of the family life cycle will be that of Duvall (1977). Duvall's Family Life Cycle was chosen because the focus of the framework evolves around how families change based on the first child's developmental level. Duvall's focus on family change "associated with the first child's development provides an appropriate framework for this study because it focuses on potential change following a specific family life event (birth of an infant), that is, a first-time father's perceptions of changes in the marital relationship following the birth of an infant. Second, Duvall's family life cycle was chosen because the framework focuses on family growth and developmental stages. Duvall (1977) states tasks associated with each developmental stage are a family growth responsibility. The successful achievement of family developmental tasks results in success with later tasks, whereas the failure results in difficulty with later family tasks. Finally, Duvall's conceptual framework is easily understood and usually accepted among various professional disciplines as a vehicle to study the family life cycle (Duvall, 1977). l3 Duvall's framework of the family developmental life cycle does have limitations, however. These include, first, a middle-class bias. Duvall's framework is based on a white, middle-class population. No discussion is provided of how and if lower income families fit into this framework. For example, establishing a family home may be difficult if a first-time father has no job, and is unable to provide me basic needs for his family. Also, Duvall assumes all families are homogeneous and proceed longitudinally through the same life cycle stages; however, not all families proceed in a continuous way. Family differences have not been clearly discussed and applied to this framework. A second limitation relates to a lack of attention to family diversity. Duvall's framework is based on a traditional family unit consisting of a father, mother and children. A lack of discussion exists as to how single parent families and other non-traditional living arrangements (cohabitating couples) can develop within the context of this family life cycle. Because of these two limitations, the generalizability of this framework is called into question. Nevertheless, the use of this framework is appropriate for this investigation because this study focuses on assessing perceptions of changes in a marital relationship based on a traditional, middle-class nuclear family unit which is consistent with Duvall's framework. FAMILY LIFE CYCLE OVERVIEW The establishment of a nuclear family begins at marriage and lasts as long as both partners remain together. The family life cycle provides a framework for examining changes that occur as a newly created family 141 evolves over time. The family life cycle incorporates a longitudinal perspective of the family unit as well as sequential and cyclical patterns of growth, development and decline. Duvall (1977) states that the family life cycle encompasses eight successive stages, beginning with marriage and ending with the death of a spouse. (See Figure 2.1) The growth and development of the first child creates the propelling force in the family's sequential movement through the life cycle stages. Although each family proceeds through stages of development in a unique way, there is a predictability about the family life cycle as the family progresses through each of the eight stages of the cycle. Each stage encompasses family developmental tasks that must be accomplished within a critical period of time. Successful passage from one family developmental stage to the next encourages growth of individual family members and progression of the family life cycle. The family life cycle encompasses life events which may alter the interpersonal interactions of family members. Family life events such as parenthood and the launching of children impose new rights and responsibilities on family members, may alter the family‘s stability and integrity, and tax their available resources. A family life event may progress to a family "crisis" depending on the hardships of the event, the resources of the family, and the family's perception of the event (Hill, 1963). If the first-time father experiences the birth of the infant as a crisis, this may influence his perceptions of the marital relationship. The following section addresses Stage I, the Marital Family, and Stage II, the Childbearing Family, of the family development life cycle. FAMILY Widths the marital dyad: maintaining links with older and younger geuueretiom MIDDLE- FIGURE 1 (Source: 15 Stage I Stage II 4% years FAMILY CHILD- BEARING FAMILY 7‘6 yam scuoou.- 14% m" AGE FAMILY Socialiainq and educating children _ TEENAGE 21 years FAMILY Releasing children as young adults: Developing post- perental interests LAUNCH ING FAMILY 29 years Stage-critical tasks in the family life cycle. Adapted from Duvall, 1977, Table 7-3, p. 144.) 16 First, a brief overview of each stage will be presented. Next, the way in which components of the marital relationship under investigation relate to each stage and how the birth of an infant may change the components of the marital relationship are discussed. Family Life Cycle - Stage 1 Stage Iof Duvall's (1977) family life cycle, a Marital Family, marks the beginning of a couple's new life together. As a man and woman merge into a family and begin to accomplish the tasks of Stage I, a marital relationship develops. In the review of the literature, a lack of agreement among researchers regarding a conceptual definition of the marital relationship is evident (e.g., Burr, 1973; Cole, 1973; Spanier, 1972). The concept of the marital relationship has taken on an implicit definition within research studies. Investigators continue to attempt to measure the marital relationship even though empirical evidence is lacking regarding a definition of the marital relationship and the components which it encompasses. Spanier and Cole (1976) argue that the lack of agreement in conceptually defining the marital relationship is healthy because it stimulates dialogue among researchers that can lead to improved research and theory development. Duvall (1977) implies that a marital relationship is a socially sanctioned union between two individuals who interact with one another on major issues of their marriage. Orthner (1981) identifies a marital relationship as a multifaceted arrangement designed to meet individuals' needs. A marital relationship provides an outlet for sexual intimacy and a stable family unit for socializing children. The marital relationship represents a new process of 17 pair development and symbolizes a relational commitment. For the purpose of this research study, the marital relationship is defined as an ongoing affiliation characterized by interactions and/or feelings between two individuals who are bound by a legal marriage contract and living together. A relationship can be drawn between the marital relationship and Duvall's Family Life Cycle that through the process of accomplishing family tasks, a husband and wife develop positive and/or negative feelings about their relationship. No discussion is provided by Duvall about whether the marital relationship is good or bad, only that there is one. Also, Duvall does not address how to measure whether the newly formed relationship is working. This researcher assumes the accomplishment of tasks provides a means to measure the quality of the working relationship for a married couple. The identified tasks which the marital couple are expected to accomplish in Stage I include: (1) finding, fumishing and maintaining a home; (2) financially supporting themselves; (3) allocating responsibilities each partner is able and willing to assume; (it) establishing a mutually acceptable, personal, emotional and sexual role; (5) interacting with in- laws, relatives and community; (6) planning for possible children; and (7) maintaining a positive morale about the relationship. The success or lack of success in accomplishing family tasks influences the feelings the couple develops about their marital relationship. Spanier (1976) has identified four components which can measure flue quality of a marital relationship. The components consist of: (l) Dyadic Cohesion; (2) Dyadic Consensus; (3) Dyadic Satisfaction; and (4) Affectional Expression. No clear definitions of the four concepts have been established 18 by Spanier, but definitions can be extrapolated from his questionnaire items. Spanier's conceptual model of the components that constitute a marital relationship can provide a framework to examine the accomplishments of Duvall's family developmental tasks (see Figure 2). DYADIC COHESION is defined as the mutual engagement in activities (Spanier, 1976). Companionship and cohesion are defined synonymously in the literature as a sharing of time, activities, or experiences between a couple (Orthner, 1981). One assumption of Duvall's (1977) Stage Iof the family developmental life cycle appears to be that the accomplishment of family tasks is facilitated by a couple's mutual engagement h activities. The sharing of time together enhances the couple's opportunity to establish a new family structure outside of the kin network. The family task of finding and furnishing a home requires the couple to spend time together locating and previewing the available apartmentsflwouses prior to selection. The couple must share time communicating their likes and dislikes of potential houses plus becoming involved in activities of purchasing home furnishings. As the couple spends time locating and selecting a home and furnishings they may also share future desires based on mutual likes and dislikes along with financial ability. The sharing of time and activities provides a mechanism whereby a couple may identify similarities, plus discuss and resolve personal differences. The mutual engagement in activities may provide an opportunity for the couple to establish a positive morale about the marriage and identify future goals. The engagement in activities can 19 FIGURE 2 Relationship between Duvall's Family Tasks and Spanier's Components Spanier's Dyadic Adjustment Scale STAGEI Duvall's FamilLTasks 6. Finding, Furnishing, and Maintaining a Home Financially Independent Allocating Responsibilities Establish Personal, Emotional and Sexual Role Interact with Relatives and Community Plan for Children Maintain Positive Morale STAGE [1 Adaptation of Home Manage Additional Financial Costs Allocate Responsibilities Support Spousal Parental Role Plan for Future Children Relationship with Relatives Maintain Spousal Morale Maintain Communication Establish Family Rituals Dyadic Cohesion Dyadic Consensus Dyadic Satisfaction Dyadic Consensus Dyadic Satisfaction Affectional Expression Dyadic Cohesion Dyadic Consensus Dyadic Consensus Affectional Expression Dyadic Satisfaction Dyadic Cohesion Dyadic Consensus Dyadic Cohesion Dyadic Satisfaction Dyadic Consensus Dyadic Satisfaction Dyadic Consensus Dyadic Consensus Affectional Expression Dyadic Cohesion Dyadic Consensus Dyadic Satisfaction Dyadic Satisfaction Dyadic Cohesion 20 promote a sense of togetherness that may enhance bonding and feelings of commitment to each other. Dyadic cohesion enhances the couple's ability to accomplish family tasks and establish positive feelings about their marital relationship. DYADIC SATISFACTION is defined as positive feelings about the relationship such as feelings of pleasure or contentment with the alliance along with no regret of and no desire to terminate the marriage (Spanier, 1976). Marital satisfaction is a feeling of pleasure and happiness with the relationship. In Duvall's (1977) Stage Iof the family life cycle, the couple is attempting to establish a satisfactory rruarriage. The couple's family tasks include being satisfied with their first home and fumishings plus being satisfied with available means of financially supporting themselves as an ’mdependent family. In addition, each spouse must be satisfied with new role allocations and responsibilities that accompany marriage (provider, housekeeper). The couple must also be satisfied with the degree of interaction between in-laws, relatives, and community, while establishing a new family. Available time and desire to participate with in-laws, relatives and community may be limited while the marital family is attempt'mg to adjust to each other and their new life together. Dyadic satisfaction enhances the couple's ability to accomplish family tasks and establish positive feelings about their marital relationship. DYADIC CONSENSUS is defined as agreement between a couple about matters of importance to the maintenance of their relationship (Spanier, 1976). This concept is similar to decision-making 'm that both concepts within a marital relationship discuss how couples must come to an agreement when making decisions about family matters (Orthner, 1981). In 21 Duvall's (1977) Stage 1 of the family developmental life cycle, the couple must come to agreement when attempting to accomplish family tasks. The couple must agree on finding and furnishing a home within the price range and location they desire. The couple must agree on allocating responsibilities that each partner is willing and able to assume. The couple must agree on the frequency and extent of involvement with in-laws, relatives, community and each other. Sharing time as a couple provides an opportunity to communicate and experience enjoyment together through activity. According to Kerckhoff (1972), couples' consensus on values varies with status level; consensus was higher among higher status couples than lower. Distinctions were made between the working class and the middle class. The working class was defined as maintaining relatively separate spheres of life in which the exchange of ideas or opinions are not considered a major parameter. In contrast, among middle-class relationships, both spouses were involved in decision-making. AFFECTIONAL EXPRESSION is defined as demonstrations of positive emotion toward a spouse that suggests love and caring and involves the engagement in sexual relations (Spanier, 1976). Stage Iof the family developmental life cycle is a time when the marital couple assumes new roles as sexual mates. According to Duvall (1977), the first year is confusing to the new married couple as they establish styles of affectional expression with each other. Many of the difficulties stem from the couple's lack of or inaccurate knowledge about affectional expression which may lead to unrealistic expectations and disappointment. Also, individual needs growing out of different hereditary makeup, different backgrounds of experience, and differing concepts of sexual activity may 22 create barriers to mutual gratification. in Stage Iof the marital family, the husband and his spouse form a new meaning of affectional expression. One of the family tasks for the couple involves planning for possible children. The couple must mutually decide whether a child is desired at the present time or whether to postpone conception to a later date. The couple's decision may relate to their age, desire, in-law pressure, task accomplishment or the amount of time married. This marital task necessitates family planning practices if the couple decides to postpone childbearing. On the other hand, if the marital couple decides to conceive a child, the couple anticipates a positive family life event experience. it summary, Duvall's family developmental life cycle provides a relevant framework for discussing the family as it proceeds through sequential stages, tasks, and events. The concept of the marital relationship was discussed in reference to the lack of a common definition among investigators. Although a lack of empirical evidence exists identifying components of a marital relationship, researchers continue to measure the concept. Based on literature reviewed (Lamanna and Riedmann, 1981; Orthner, 1981; Scanzoni and Scanzoni, 1981; Strong, 1983), components commonly discussed within a marital relationship are companionship/cohesion; affectional expression; decision making/ consensus; and happiness/satisfaction. Communication was also identified as a component enhancing the quality of the marital relationship since communication is included within all aspects of a marriage. Each component was discussed in relation to Duvall's family life cycle--Stage I- -the marital family and how the accomplishment of family tasks is facilitated by these components. The siccessful accomplishment of family 23 tasks enhances feelings the couple have about the quality of their marital relationship. How the birth of an infant constitutes a family life event which may alter the first-time father’s perception of the marital relationship will be presented in the following section. Family Life Event According to Duvall (1977), critical periods occur within stages of the family developmental life cycle when new demands and required changes are placed on family members. For example, becoming parents, raising and launching children and retirement are all critical periods. Parad (197‘s) identifies a critical period as a transition point in the family developmental life cycle. Hill (1963) states family developmental life cycle events are' normative situations whereby change and adaptation are viewed as consequences of normative transitions. Miller and Janosik (1980) suggest a family life event represents a turning point for a couple and may be experienced as a crisis depending on the individual's ability to react and adapt to the event. The birth of an infant has been referred to in the literature as a criticial transition, developmental event, and a crisis experience (Carter dc McGoldrick, 1980; Duvall, 1977; Hill, 1963; LeMasters, 1957). Whatever terminology is used, researchers agree the birth of the first infant creates changes within a marital relationship (LeMasters, 1957; Duvall, 1977; Friedman, 1981; Miller and Janosik, 1980). Hill identifies parenthood (birth of an infant) as a critical transition in the family's development. LeMasters (1957) stated the birth of an infant represents the final step into adulthood and maturity for which the couple 21} has no eXperience. The birth of a first infant, according to Hill, is a stressor event which may proceed to a crisis depending upon the individual's definition of the event, the event itself and the available family resources. The couple's adaptation to the family life event (birth of an infant) will determine the acceptance and understanding of changes it the marital relationship. For the purposes of this study, a family life event is defined as a normative family developmental experience which creates changes in the marital relationship. The birth of an infant is operationalized as a family life event. The birth of an infant can be classified as a normative expected event which necessitates that the couple reorganize their dyadic family to a triadic family. The couple must alter their life-style to accept and adjust to the infant's demands. The birth of an infant requires dramatic changes it the marital couple's values, behavior, attitudes, and family organization. Incorporating an infant into a formerly childless marital relationship may potentially cause confusion, resentment and conflict. As the parents struggle to redefine their own and each other's roles, disorganization may occur whereby the first-time father is unable to adapt to the family life event. Depend'mg on how the first-time father defines the event, identifies the hardships associated with the life event and exhausts available resources to assist in adapting to the event, he may perceive changes in the marital relationship. it summary, the birth of an infant is viewed by many investigators as a potential crisis in the marital relationship. Others refute the crisis effect and stress the gratifications (Russell, 1971:). Depending on how the first-time father experiences the family life event, he may perceive 25 changes within the marital relationship. In the following section, Stage Ila-the childbearing family-«will be discussed and how the birth of an infant may influence changes in selected components of a marital relationship. Family Life Cycle - Stag_e_y_ Duvall (1977) identifies that the transition from Stage Ito Stage II of the family developmental life cycle occurs with the birth of the first infant. In addition to acquiring new parental roles, family tasks for the chilcbearing stage must be accomplished. These tasks include: (1) adapting the home to accommodate 'mfant needs; (2) managing additional infant costs; (3) establishing mutual responsibilities; (14) supporting spouses parental role learning; (5) planning for future children; (6) relat'ng to relatives; (7) maintaining spousal motivation and morale; (8) communicating with one another; and (9) establishing family rituals. This family life event may produce changes in the marital relationship because the addition of the infant requires sudden alterations ‘n the family's organization and relationship. Parenthood necessitates family life changes demand'mg new roles for which little preparation exists. Parenthood is a new demanding role for which the childbearing family may have unrealistic and rornanticized myths. As a result of this family life event (birth of an infant) the first-time father may perceive changes 'm the marital relationship. How this family life event (birth of an infant) influences a couple's accomplishment of the developmental tasks for the childbearing stage and thereby affects 26 perceived changes in the marital relationship will be explored in the next section. it Duvall's (1977) Stage II of the family developmental life cycle, the couple is expected to make decisions on preparing the home for the infant's needs (furniture, clothing, safety measires, and food). The couple is expected to make decisions regarding financial expenditures for infant needs and parental recreation based on their income and budget limitations (used or new furniture, clothing, and babysitters). The couple is also expected to make decisions about who will provide child care needs (feeding, diapering, health maintenance visits and babysitters). Making decisions concerning new parental roles, responsibilities, and obligations is a part of the childbearing task couples must address. This new role obligation is acquired without having prior experience. The husband and wife must provide support, encouragement and assistance to each other as they assume their parental roles. Each spouse must become a learner, teacher and a supporter to the other as their parental roles evolve following their 'mfant's birth. As the childbearing couple is adjusting to new roles they are also forming family rituals which become family specific (mom and dad both putting the infant to bed together at night, location of the infant during family meal time, playing time before bed, reading to the child prior to bed). The couple is expected to make decisions regarding the amount of relative interaction and the extent of accepting relative assistance, information and/or recommendations for child rearing practices. Phnning for additional children is another task which the marital couple must discuss and decide on. All of the above childbearing tasks involve the couple communicating with each other in 27 order to accomplish family tasks and to provide a mechanism to discuss concerns and/or maintain spouse morale. In Stage II of the family life cycle, the couple is attempting to accomplish tasks within the childbearing stage. The feeling of satisfaction in the marital relationship as the family incorporates the infant into the family structure is a major task for the couple. The couple must feel pleasure or contentment with home accommodations for the infant. The couple must be content and adjust to constraints associated with the infant. The childbearing couple must become satisfied with the extent of involvement from each spouse regarding childcare responsibilities. Communication with each other may focus away from the couple and toward the infant due to child care demands and needs. This refocusing of attention and conversation toward the infant may alter satisfaction with the marital relationship. Interacting with in-laws and relatives is another task the couple must accomplish following the birth. The couple must interact with their relatives as new parents implementing the parental role with a feeling of satisfaction. As the couple begin to establish childbearing rituals, values, and goals, they need to establish a satisfactory feeling about their relationship and new roles. Research studies have been conducted on changes in the marital relationship associated with satisfaction during the childbearing stage. To most, marital satisfaction decreases following the birth of the first child (Dyer, 1963; LeMasters, 1957; Glenn 6t Weaver, 1978; Miller and Sollie, 1980; Renne, 1970; Rollins and Feldman, 1970). One reason cited for a decrease in marital satisfaction relates to the decreased time a couple has to nurture their relationship because of the additional responsibilities and 28 family developmental tasks associated with the childbearing family. Burr (1970), in contrast, reported no decline in marital satisfaction during the childbearing stage of the family life cycle. Hoffman and Manis (1978) reported children had a positive effect on marital satisfaction. Based on the literature review, the majority of research findings report negative changes in marital satisfaction following the birth of an infant. This research study will further add to or call into question past findings. Changes in the marital relationship associated with companionship may be altered during the childbearing stage of the family developmental life cycle. The couple must adjust their dyadic family to a triadic family which is accompanied by additional roles and obligations of providing for an infant. Maintaining conversation with each other requires time which the couple may lack due to infant needs and demands (feeding, diapering). The care of the infant may result in less time for the couple to have a stimulating exchange of ideas or work together on a project. Although communication within the childbearing family may be occurring, the majority of the communication may focus on or about the infant and not toward nurturing their marital relationship. Changes in the marital relationship regarding spousal motivation and morale may occur due to a decrease in dyadic companionship, time available, and the financial cost involved for the couple to participate in outside activities together. Rollins and Feldman (1970) in a cross sectional study of 799 married couples, reported that first-time fathers identified declines in companion- ship with their spouses following the births of their infants. Lake's (197(4) longitudinal research on seven middle-class couples identified a decrease in outside activities following the infant's birth. Belsky's, etal (1983) 29 research also identified a decrease in perceived cohesiveness for first-time fathers three months following the infant's birth. Research findings tend to support a decrease in dyadic cohesion following the birth of an infant, thus this study will assess this area of change. it simmary, changes in the marital rehtionship following the birth of an infant may occur with'm the area of companionship. As the marital family progresses into a childbearing family, additional tasks associated with new roles, obligations and responsibilities evolve. The childbearing tasks focus on integrating the infant into a previously structured dyadic family. Changes in the marital relationship with regard to companionship activities (talking, working together on a project, leisure activities) may occur due to infant demands. it Stage II of the childbearing family, changes in the marital relationship following the birth of an infant may occur in relation to affection. In Stage I, the family task associated with affection related to establishing and maintaining a mutually acceptable sexual role with a spouse. In Stage II of the family life cycle, this task continues; however, with an infant present, sexual expressiveness may not be as spontaneous or frequent. Changes in the marital relationship may occur because the infant may interrupt the affectional activities. Also, the infant care demands may provide little time and motivation to engage in sexual expression. In addition, the task of family planning may affect the couple's sexual expression, especially if the couple is using alternative methods of birth control in relation to breast feeding mothers. For all of the above reasons, the first-time father may perceive changes in the marital relationship following the birth of his infant. 30 Past research has addressed the task of maintaining a sexual role based on first-time fathers' perceptions of changes in the marital relationship following the birth of an infant. According to Simmell (1961:), a couple undergoes changes in the marital relationship in the areas of affection and intimacy. The couple has needs and desires that the infant interrupts. Sexual expression is frequently identified by the father as one of these needs. Hobbs and Cole's (1976) report that first-time fathers identify decreased sexual responsiveness from their wives as a difficulty six months after the birth of their infant. Significant declines in affectional expression between the prenatal and first post-natal assessment (three months) also were reported by Belsky (1983). Fein (1976) indicated that fathers reported a change in the amount of attention from their wives following the birth of an infant. Much of the wife's attention is directed toward the infant (feeding, bathing), causing the father to feel excluded and deprived. According to Young (1977), a first infant creates changes in the personal relationship of the husband and wife. The wife's attention is redirected from the husband to the new infant. The infant's physical needs (food, water, shelter, warmth and safety) require priority over the marital couple's intimacy and sexual relations. Thus, a decline in sexual response from a wife following the birth of an infant may affect a first-time father's perception of change in the marital relationship. The purpose of this study, therefore, is to assess perception of changes in affectional expression three to five months following an infant's birth. h summary, Duvall's family developmental framework is a model which can be applied to identify stages and tasks couples experience over their life cycle. Spanier's conceptual model of components that constitute 31 a marital relationship can provide a means for examining the accomplishment of family developmental tasks. Following the birth of an infant, the marital couple enters a new family life cycle stage (Chidbearing) that is accompanied by additional tasks, responsibilities and obligations. Depending on how the first-time father experiences the family life event (birth of an infant), the accomplishment of family tasks may be altered and his perceptions of the marital relationship may change. Lack of agreement exists among investigators concerning perceptions of changes in the marital relationship expressed by first-time fathers in the areas of dyadic cohesion, dyadic consensus, dyadic satisfaction, and affectional expression. This study will provide additional research findings as to the direction of the marital relationship changes expressed by first-time fathers within the Childbearing Stage (see Figure 3). In the next section, modifying factors potentially influencing first-time fathers' perceptions of changes in the marital relationship will be discussed. MODIFYING FACTORS POTENTIALLY INFLUENCING THE MARITAL RELATIONSHIP Age of the First-Time Father Age of the first—time father has not been found to be a significant variable in marital changes following the first birth (Dyer, 1963; Bigner, 1977). In a non-random sample of thirty-two couples who were 35-years old or younger, Dyer (1963) found no significant relationship between the parents' ages and the crisis level on family roles and relationships after the 32 m mmslo muaoamuum mo madmauoz huu>aaua\uonwa muwusuaaoum ucmmaH coaumusvu souumasuuo cowuumz mums» oaouaH ow< 00000 000 muouoom wawhmwvoz Hofiuaouom aoammuuaxm chowuoumw< o coauuwwmfiuom cave»: o momaomcoo oauomn o cowmunoo uavmhn o suuam m.u¢Mw:H mag wcwzoaaom m.:uaoz o>wm ou munch nanmcofiumaom kufiumz any :« mmmaonu mo maowuaoouwm m.uo:uom oaHHuumuwm \ \ \ “sauna MO aunts ’1 aofimmuuaxm Honoauoomu< o :owuummmaumm uacmmn o mamsomaoo owvmzn o coamonoo owes»: o afiamaoaumamm season: was no coauaoouum m.uo:umm uaahuumuqm m>wuuoamoum HH mu<fim Hzm>w MhHA NHH= >a=~m H mQuoo:b deucuemwao>oa saqsem no eonusoouom n.0auzz \\\\\\§ : zc~eufim cu vouch eunucoaueaum dauaua: osu ca mumcozo mo ocofiusoouum .euoSuem mafiauuauah O acaucu no no abuse weoquouoozh < .A_ao_v wcfix Bonn eousme< n mzbcuk zuuuaumauus ucuuea o suo>fiaoe\uonea uo hoaesuoz o hocacwuus mo zoacauoz uaoocu couumaauuo euauuoa mummy um< coauuoaeu uuHAaHHe> wcuhuueoz Hewucouom s couuuouaxm decouuouuu< o ecuuumuoauom gauche maucowcoo oqvuha o acqausoo ufivchn o aaaucofiumaom squats: tau mo unequaouuum .muucuem mafia tumuqh o>fiuuuaaoum a HH uccbm sz>m aha; >4~Z A8... .12.- one. «3. ceased... ease. .33. m2: s3. 32:2 cocoa as: «S... $2.32 socoemoco :z. 8:888 of {uses .0 V. V: V. V: n e .m. m m .e. .m we m k .c. M. .v o a n .v m m a a“ C C m h m p .5 k E S e I M mu M .m u m P. m a a .m e b F n v. m u m a. .m mflaflcm> 9.3.302 c0033.. meson—eta EoEoS «0.60.5 colossus = soap 123 satisfaction following the birth of an infant. No significant change was reported for affectional expression. Pearson Product Moment Correlations were utilized to identify the degree and direction of the relationships among tte study variabbs and reliability indices for the instrument were discussed. Last, additional findings not addressed in tte research questions were presented. Ilt Chapter VI, data described iut Chapter V and tte research questions will be interpeted and summarized. Conclusion and implications for nursing education, research and practice will be discussed within tte context of the conceptual framework of the research study. CHAPTER VI SUMMARY, INTERPRETATIONS, AND RECOMMENDATIONS Overview In Chapter VI a summary and interpretation of the study findings are presented. This summary and interpretation includes a review of previous chapters followed by a discussion of the sociodemographic characteristics of the sample p0pulation and how these potential modifying variables may have influenced the outcome of the study. Findings for the research questions are discussed within the context of results from previous research studies. Limitations of the present study are cited and implications of the study for nursing practice, education and research are presented. Summary of Findings A descriptive study of adult first-time fathers was conducted to identify perceptions of changes within the marital relationship three to five months following the birth of an infant. Perceived changes in the marital relationship were measured using an adaptation of- Spanier's (1976) Dyadic Adjustment Scale. The 32-item self- administered Dyadic Adjustment Scale measures changes in dyadic cohesion, dyadic consensus, dyadic satisfaction, and affectional expression. A five-point Likert scale was used for the purpose of identifying the 124 125 direction and strength of perceived changes following the birth of an infant. The use of the Family Developmental Life Cycle framework (Duvall, 1977) and King's (1981) nursing theory provide a means to examine first-time fathers' perceptions of changes in their marital relationship three to five months following their infants' birth. Data were collected from sixty-six first-time fathers, aged 18-36. Data were analyzed using Pearson Product Moment Correlations, _t_-tests and descriptive statistics. The data results suggest significant positive changes (p < .05) in the marital relationship three to five months following the birth of the infant in the areas of dyadic cohesion, dyadic consensus, and dyadic satisfaction. There was no significant change in affectional expression. F irst-time fathers perceive positive changes in the marital relationship three to five months following the birth of their infants. Nursing interventions should be directed toward supporting and reinforcing the positive changes. Anticipatory guidance should be provided to first- time fathers as the family continues through the developmental life cycle stages placing increased demands on the marital relationship. Review of Previous Chapters In Chapter I, the forming of a family was discussed in relationship to assuming new roles. To the extent that each spouse fulfills the other's role expectations, the marriage is assumed to be mutually satisfying. Eventually the couple may decide to add a child to the family structure. The addition of a child is viewed as a major family life event from which marital relationship changes may occur. Since the late 1950's, researchers 126 have examined perceptions of changes in the marital relationship following the birth of an infant; however, inconsistent findings as to whether the changes are positive or negative remain unanswered. Presently, there is a lack of nursing research describing fathers' perceptions of changes in the marital relationship following the birth of an infant. In addition, research has been conducted on perceptions of changes in the marital relationship during a suggested "honeymoon" period which may have affected the study results. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to identify first-time fathers' perceptions of changes in the marital relationship three to five months following the birth of their infants. Research questions, conceptual definitions and strengths, and limitations to the study were identified. In the second chapter of this thesis, the concept of a marital relationship was discussed. It was noted that empirical evidence is lacking regarding a definition and components making up a marital relationship; nevertheless, researchers continue to attempt to measure the concept with available tools. A conceptual framework derived from Duvall's (1977) Family Developmental Life Cycle was presented in Chapter II. Duvall's framework focuses on how families change as they proceed through eight identified family stages which begin at marriage and end with the death of a spouse. The focus of this investigation was on Stage I, the Marital Family, and Stage II, the Child-Bearing Family. The marital relationship was discussed in relation to a newly created family and components identified in the literature consitituing the relationship. As a family life event (birth of an infant) occurs within Duvall's developmental life cycle, new stages and tasks are required of family members. The couple must alter their 127 lifestyle to accept and adjust to the infant's demands. Depending on how the first-time father defines the event, identifies the hardships associated with the life event and exhausts available resources to assist in adapting to the event, he may perceive changes in the marital relationship. In the third chapter of this thesis, literature was reviewed in relation to first-time fathers' perceptions of changes in the marital relationship following the birth of his infant. Classic research studies identify the birth of an infant as a critical event creating a crisis in the marital relationship. The addition of an infant to the family structure creates a need to reorganize the Marital family (dyad) to a Childbearing family (triad). This reorganization necessitates assuming new roles, responsibilities and obligations for which first-time fathers have had no experience. Depending on how the first-time father views the birth of the infant, he may perceive changes in the marital relationship. First-time fathers identified changes in the marital relationship following the birth of an infant in regards to: (1) lack of attention and affection from his wife; (2) increased economic pressure; (3) altering family plans to accomodate the infant; (4) decreased companionship; (5) decreased socializing; and (6) alterations in marital satisfaction. It was acknowledged that very little nursing research exists‘ that measures perceptions of changes in the marital relationship following the birth of an infant. In the fourth chapter of this thesis, an explanation of the research methods for this retrospective study was presented. A description of the sample selection was given, along with additional criteria for the infant and mother. Statistical methods also were described, including descriptive, inferential and _t_-test techniques. 128 Finally, in Chapter V the data results were presented. Analysis of the data provided the following results. The first-time father does perceive a statistically significant positive change in the marital relationship three to five months following the birth of his infant in dyadic cohesion, dyadic consensus and dyadic satisfaction. The first-time father does not perceive a statistically significant change in affectional expression three to five months following the birth of his infant. The following section will discuss the study sample and provide interpretations of the results. Descriptors of the Study Salee Sociodemographic Characteristics A summary of the sociodemographic characteristics of the study sample and comparison of these characteristics to other research findings will be presented. Sociodemographic characteristics of the subjects in this study may have affected the outcome of the study. The manner in which the sociodemographic variables could have influenced the results of the study will be presented in the discussion of findings for the research questions. _Agg. The mean age of the study participants was 29 years with a range of 22 to 36 years. Within the context of Duvall's family developmental framework, the participants in this study can be considered in the young adulthood developmental stage. The ages of the first-time fathers were similar to subjects in Hobbs (1965, 1968) and Hobbs and Coles (1976) investigations. These researchers reported the mean age of first time fathers was 24. Russell's (1974) study consisted of a wider age range, 129 from 17 to 47 (mean 29), whib LeMaster (1957) and Dyer (1963) reported a more narrow range from 25 to 35 years, however, no mean ages were identified. gel. The inclusion of only male (first-time fatter) subjects was inherent iut the study design. Therefore the results of ttis study reflect first-time fatters' perceptions only, and tte findings cannot be generalized to young adult first-time matters. The present study therefore differs from previous research on young adults first-time parents which has included both mothers and fatters (LeMaster, 1957; Lake, 1974). Nursing literature is scant in relation to studying only first-time fatters' perceptions of changes in tte marital relationship. Work Status. Almost all (n = 64; 97%) of the subjects indicated ttat ttey were currently employed at tte time data was collected. Two subjects (3%) indicated ttey were unemployed. Compared with national data based on 1983 U.S. Bureau of Labor statistics (Statistical Abstracts of U.S., 1985) indicate 91.2% of mabs 16 years of age and over are employed. Two first-time fatters (2%) responded ttey were unemployed. Thus, tte sampb contained a larger number of employed first-time fatters. Reasons for ttis may include tte automobile industry located wittin the local area where subjects resided. Anotter reason may be first-time fatters felt the need to be employed in order to provide for tteir families and so may have accepted any availabb jobs found. Also, tte sample contained a highly educated group which may have enhanced obtaining employment. Occupation. One-third (n = 64; 33%) of respondents indicated ttey were higher executives/business managers and professionals. Anotter one- quarter (it = 16; 25%) indicated ttey worked in skilled manual labor. 130 Compared with national data based on the 1980 U.S. Bureau of Census (Statistical Abstracts of the U.S., 1985) the male occupation of the labor force for 1980 in higher executives/business managers and professionals was 22%. The labor force for skilled manual workers was 21%. A possible reason for the higher executives] business managers and professionals as compared to the nation may relate to the university town. Race or Ethnic Backmun_d. The majority of first-time fathers were white (97%). The remaining 3% of participants described themselves as mulatto and/or jew. No other specific racial or ethnic background was identified by any of the participants. Past studies (Dyer, 1963; Hobbs, 1965; 1968; Lake, 1974; LeMasters, 1957) have been composed of similar racial backgrounds. According to the 1980 U.S. Census, 83.1% of the population is white, 11.7% black, and the remaining racial groups comprise 5.2% of the population. Therefore, there is a larger proportion of whites in the present study than in the general population. In comparing the study population to the Lansing and East Lansing area, the national data based on 1980 Census (Current Population Reports, 1981) indicated blacks comprise 5% of the population, Spanish comprise 3%, and whites comprise 92%. Based on Lansing and East Lansing data, the study sample contained a larger percentage of white participants. Reasons for the large proportion of whites may relate to the study methodology which utilized local newspaper birth announcements or the personal preference of another newspaper versus the one used thus omitting them from being included in the study. In addition, the possibility exists that families of minority races may not be approached in the hospital as equally as white families. Also the potential exists that minority families are making the decision to have home births instead of hospital deliveries. 131 Education. Of the sixty-six respondents, all indicated ttey had graduated from high school. One-ttird (n = 21; 32%) of tte respondents indicated ttey had attended some colbge and over one-half (n = 35; 53%) were college graduates or had post-graduate education. Participants iut this study differed from LeMaster's (1957) and Dyer's (1963) because ttey establislted criteria for inclusion ttat tte fatter (LeMaster) and tte fatter and matter (Dyer) had to have a college education. In comparing tte study sampb education to tte general U.S. male population (1980 Census statistics), 33% of the general population have below a high school education, 35% have a high school degree, and anotter 32% have attended college. The participants in tte study sampb differed from tte general population it ttat tte subjects are more educated. A possibb explanation for ttis more educated sampb may have to do with tte availabb institutions of higher education wittin tte local area. In addition, ttis is a college town which attracts professionab to this area for a university academic position. 119.9519; Approximately two-thirds (n = 41; 63%) of the subjects reported an annual family income above $25,000. No higher ranges were availabb for categorizing. The U.S. Bureau of Census (Current Population Reports, 1982) for a white, three-person family size, tte mean income was $28,804. The income for tte study sampb and tte U.S. population for a family of ttree cannot be compared because no mean income for ttis study could be calculated due to tte sampb's high range. It was anticipated ttat perceptions of financial adequacy could affect answers, therefore subjects were asked as to how difficult it was to live on tteir family income. One-ttird (n = 21; 32%) indicated experiencing some difficulty living on tteir present income, whib two-thirds (n = 41; 62%) 132 expressed little or no difficulty. In comparing this study with past studies (Dyer, 1963; LeMasters, 1957; Hobbs, 1968; Lake, 1974; Russell, 1974) subject's responses indicated less perceived difficulty living on family income than past investigations. This finding may reflect the subjects' relatively high reported income level plus the fact that almost all (97%) were employed at a regular job. This high income is also consistent with the subjects' high educational range. These findings may account for why they did not perceive difficulty living on their family income. In summary, the study sample covered an age range of 22 to 36 years, with a mean age of 29. The subjects were married from one to thirteen years, with a mean of four years. The majority of participants included fathers currently working at a regular job with a small number of unemployed and students. All the subjects had a high school education or higher. The median annual income for the sample was above $25,000. Almost all the participants were caucasian. Therefore the sample in the present study was composed primarily of white, middle class, well educated first-time fathers. Duvall's family life cycle framework appears to be an appropriate model for the study sample. This is similar to samples of other studies of first-time fathers (LeMaster, 1957; Dyer, 1963; Rollins and Felding, 1970; Burr, 1970; Waldron and Routh, 1981; and Belsky, 1983). Additional Findings Regarding the Study Sample Selected sociodemographic and other potential modifying variables concerning the first-time father (age, income, education, number of years married, occupation, normalcy of pregnancy, labor/delivery, and infant 133 prematurity) were correlated with each scale utilized in the present study. In Chapter V, results of Pearson Product Moment Correlations were reported for statistically significant relationships (Table 10). In this section, data are summarized and interpreted for statistically significant relationships. Education. There was a negative relationship between education and dyadic satsifaction. As the education of the first-time father increased, he perceived a decrease in dyadic satisfaction. Some explanations for this negative correlation could be related to the sociodemographic character- istics of the study sample. The mean age was 29 years, the majority of the sample had attended college, had a regular job and reported an income above $25,000 per year. The negative correlation between education and dyadic satisfaction supports the idea that as the first-time father becomes educated, his job responsibilities/time required and demands made on him may diminish his perceptions of dyadic satisfaction thus channeling his satisfaction, time and energy away from his marital relationship. In addition, as the first-time father becomes more educated, his areas of interest, involvement in activities and social contacts may expand which may result in a perceived decrease in dyadic satisfaction. Yet another explanation for the negative relationship between education and dyadic satisfaction may be that the educated first-time father may feel the infant required menial parental care for which he is not (by choice or ability) willing to provide. He may feel fatherhood responsibilities are not his role and as a result may alienate himself from the infant and mother relationship, thus may perceive a decrease in dyadic satisfaction. 134 Occupgtion. There was a negative relationship between the occupation of the first-time father and dyadic satisfaction. The first-time fathers who maintained a higher executive] professional occupation perceived a negative change in dyadic satisfaction three to five months following the birth of his infant. A possible explanation for this decrease in dyadic satisfaction could relate to a transfer of satisfaction feelings toward his professional occupation verses his marital relationship. Normalcy of Labor/ Delivery. There was a negative relationship between normalcy of labor/ delivery and dyadic consensus. As the normalcy of the labor/ delivery decreased, the first-time father perceived an increase in dyadic consensus. A possible rationale for this relationship could be that as problems occur during labor/delivery, a first-time father may feel there is an increase in marital relationship bonding whereby decisions must be made as a couple and during that time each support the other while coming to an agreement on marital issues. This increased mutual decision-making may create a positive feeling between them-—one which may enhance the continued consensus three to five months following the birth of the infant. Difficulty Living. There was a positive relationship between the difficulty living and dyadic satisfaction. As the ease of living improved, the first-time father perceived an increase in dyadic satisfaction. A possible rationale for this positive relationship could be that a couple without financial difficulties has one less major cause for marital disharmony. 135 Conclusions of the Research Iut Otapter II of ttis study a conceptual model was presented for first-time fatters' perceived changes in four sebcted components of the marital relationship following an infant's birth. Based on tte study findings, tte following conclusions and modifications in tte model are proposed. (See revised Model, Figure 6) The conceptual model should include assessing perceptions of the prospective fatter's marital relationsltip iut Stage 1 of tte Family Life Cycb. According to Duvall (1977), tte successful accomplishment of Stage 1 family tasks enhances tte success witt later tasks. Marital adjustments are expected as developmental tasks associated with family life cycb stages proceed. By modifying tte conceptual framework to include Stage I of the family life cycb, longitudinal perceived relationship changes could be assessed before and after a family life event which would allow a comparison between perceived changes. The pre-post assessment would also facilitate continuity of care and allow an interpersonal relationship to become established. Nursing assistance toward enhancing and/or providing anticipatory guidance to tte prospective fatter's perception of marital relationship changes iut Stage Icould facilitate tte adjustment to Stage II. The sociodemographic items provided information regarding tte growtt and development of the first-time fatter plus information about tte accomplishment of family tasks (age, years married, income, occupation and education). These factors were considered to be of importance in determining tte first-time fatter's reactions to tte birtt of his infant. 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