ABSTRACT
Objective
To examine how expectations and actual division of child care labor relate to life goal satisfaction among first-time and multiparous birthing parents.
Background
The unequal division of child care labor between birthing parents and partners is well-documented, yet its impact on life goal satisfaction remains unclear.
Method
Participants included 132 birthing parents (M age = 31.45, SD = 4.72) and 100 partners in heterosexual relationships, 56% of whom were first-time parents. Expected division of child care labor was assessed during pregnancy (for 1 month) and at 1 month postpartum (for 6 months). Actual labor division was reported at 1 and 6 months, with life goal satisfaction measured at 6 and 12 months. Mixed-effects models examined longitudinal associations between expectations, actual labor, and life goal satisfaction.
Results
Birthing parents expected and performed more child care labor than their partners, a pattern confirmed by partner reports. After adjusting for actual labor performed, birthing parents who anticipated doing more child care themselves reported lower life goal satisfaction, whereas those expecting greater partner involvement had higher satisfaction. Patterns varied based on prior parenting experience.
Conclusion
Expectations about child care labor may shape later life goal satisfaction. Addressing anticipated labor division during the perinatal period could enhance parental well-being and family functioning.