The Impact of Parenthood on Married Couples

Abstract

This study takes as its point of departure the basic sociological fact that adult human beings are not autonomous individuals (as per the liberal imagination) but, in accordance with the sociological imagination, are normally partnered and understand themselves and behave accordingly. In the context of this relationship, the birth of a child is a major lifestyle transition for married couples to a new level of association i.e. that of constituting a family unit. This research looks at marriage in light of previous studies which have reported declines in marriage, and decline in marriage satisfaction, as well as looking at parenthood and the processes and changes it introduces into lives.