[HTML][HTML] Can a happy relationship predict a happy life? A population-based study of maternal well-being during the life transition of pregnancy, infancy, and�…

GM Dyrdal, E R�ysamb, RB Nes, J Vitters��- Journal of Happiness Studies, 2011 - Springer
Journal of Happiness Studies, 2011Springer
The association between overall life satisfaction (LS) and relationship satisfaction (RS) was
investigated longitudinally among mothers (N= 67,355), using data from the Norwegian
Mother and Child Cohort Study (MoBa), conducted by the Norwegian Institute of Public
Health. Data were collected twice during pregnancy, and at 6 and 36 months postpartum.
Satisfaction increased during pregnancy, with RS decreasing immediately following birth
and LS showing an initial increase followed by a decrease postpartum. The results showed�…
Abstract
The association between overall life satisfaction (LS) and relationship satisfaction (RS) was investigated longitudinally among mothers (N=67,355), using data from the Norwegian Mother and Child Cohort Study (MoBa), conducted by the Norwegian Institute of Public Health. Data were collected twice during pregnancy, and at 6 and 36�months postpartum. Satisfaction increased during pregnancy, with RS decreasing immediately following birth and LS showing an initial increase followed by a decrease postpartum. The results showed that LS and RS levels were quite stable over time (.46-.75), as was their cross-sectional associations (.42-.59). Structural equation modeling using a cross-lagged longitudinal model evidenced cross-concept cross-time effects for both LS and RS. The strengths of the cross-effects were asymmetrical and life-phase specific, with RS predicting change in LS more than LS predicted changes in RS during pregnancy and infancy. Having a satisfying romantic relationship is important for retaining and increasing future life satisfaction.
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