Tweeverdieners en de ouder-kindrelatie: werkdruk en de partnerrelatie

Abstract

Aim: In the current study, we investigated the link between workload for dual-earner parents and the parent-child relationship, and the partner relationship as a potential moderator of these associations. Mothers and fathers were separately examined in this study. Method: The sample consisted of 261 parents, from children aged 4-18 years, with an average age of 40 for mothers and 42 for fathers. Parents were asked to fill out questionnaires concerning their workload, partner relationship and parent-child interactions. Results: Through multiple regression analysis it has been found that there is a significant negative relation between workload and the parent-child relationship for both parents. Also, it has been found that a significant, positive correlation exists between the quality of the partner relationship and the quality of the parent-child relationship. For mothers, it has also been found that there is a significant, negative correlation between workload and the partner relationship. A hierarchic regression analysis showed that, for mothers and for fathers, there was no significant interaction effect between workload and the quality of the partner relationship in correlation with the parent-child relationship. Conclusion: In dual-earner families, it is important that parents are aware of the fact that they have to fulfil different roles. Combining these roles has consequences for family relations and interactions. Specifically, the relationship between two parents is important, since this is significant positive related to the quality of the relationship parents have with their children.