Parenting as a choice: motivational factors and changes couples experience during the transition to parenthood

Abstract

This literature review explores the choices and changes that take place during the transition to parenthood. A summary of the current literature outlines several relevant topics including choices related to parenthood today, fertility and motivational factors, readiness and timing, the connection between marital and parental satisfaction, parental expectations, the role of work and finding balance between work and home, and the influence of societal shifts. Therapeutic implications drawn from these findings are addressed.