ABSTRACT
Having a child, especially a first child, marks a period of dramatic change for all concerned. The birth of a baby, or perhaps the adoption of a child, tends to be a cause for celebration by the parents, relatives and other interested parties. On the other hand, there have been several studies that characterise the transition to parenthood as a period of challenges or even crises where a wide range of new situations and roles have to be accommodated very rapidly (see LaRossa and LaRossa, 1981). If partners are not able or willing to adapt to the new situations, this may create serious stress within the partnership, perhaps even contributing to divorce.
