Becoming parents is one of the most stressful events couples experience in their relationship and places enormous strain on marriages and relationships. Right at the time when couples need to be as supportive and understanding to each other as possible many parents are often tired and stressed and incapable of supporting each other through this stressful time. Unsurprising research again and again shows that the early years of parenthood are one of the most vulnerable times in a marriage and a time when a high proportion of marriages break up.

Many couples are unaware of the typically negative impact that having a child has on their relationships and become upset and distressed at the rapid decline in the quality of their couple relationship. They may feel that the tension and arguements that characterise their interactions mean that their relationship is deeply flawed and destined to fail. For couples experiencing these difficulties it comes as a huge relief that a deterioration in the quality of the marital relationship is normal and to be expected in the circumstances. Many couples get their relationship back after a period of adjustment while for some the opportunity to discuss their concerns with a thrid party can be tremendously helpful and reasurring.

Here at relationships Ireland we recognise the enormous challenge becoming a parent places on a marriage or long-term relationship. We work with clients to help them to manage this change by focussing on their expectations so that they clearly understand what each expects of the other and we help them to negotiate their differences and disagreements in their new role as parents.