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Parenthood as an inflection point for men and women’s patterns of interdependence

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  01 June 2026

Christopher Cox Open the ORCID record for Christopher Cox [Opens in a new window]  and
Christine E. Parsons Open the ORCID record for Christine E. Parsons [Opens in a new window]
Christopher Cox
Affiliation:
Interacting Minds Centre (IMC), Department of Clinical Medicine & School of Culture and Society, Aarhus University, Aarhus C, Denmark Christine.parsons@clin.au.dk ccox@cc.au.dk https://pure.au.dk/portal/en/persons/christine.parsons%40clin.au.dk https://www.au.dk/en/ccox@cc.au.dk
Christine E. Parsons*
Affiliation:
Interacting Minds Centre (IMC), Department of Clinical Medicine & School of Culture and Society, Aarhus University, Aarhus C, Denmark Christine.parsons@clin.au.dk ccox@cc.au.dk https://pure.au.dk/portal/en/persons/christine.parsons%40clin.au.dk https://www.au.dk/en/ccox@cc.au.dk
*
*Corresponding author.
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Abstract

We argue that early parenthood temporarily reverses the relationship interdependence patterns described by Wahring et al. Western mothers typically rely on partner support as new caregiving demands restrict their access to external support networks. What begins as heightened maternal dependence sets in motion gendered role divisions that crystallize over time, ultimately allowing men to derive greater benefits from romantic relationships.

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Type
Open Peer Commentary
Information
Behavioral and Brain Sciences , Volume 49 , 2026 , e97
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Copyright
© The Author(s), 2026. Published by Cambridge University Press

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