Dysfunctional Beliefs Towards Parenthood and Depressive Symptoms: A Dyadic Response Surface Analysis (DRSA) Approach

Based on Beck’s cognitive theory, the present study sought to examine the extent to which the degree of (dis)similarity between partners in specific beliefs about parenting (i.e., others’ judgments, parental responsibility, parental role idealization) may be associated with their levels of depression. One hundred and seventy couples of expectant mothers and fathers in stable relationships took part in this study and Dyadic Response Surface Analysis (DRSA) approach was used. The results showed (a) a predominant actor effect of the personal beliefs related to others’ judgments and parental responsibility on depressive symptoms, for both partners, and (b) a congruence effect, suggesting that a greater similarity between maternal and paternal beliefs related to the responsibility was negatively associated with paternal depressive symptoms. These findings highlight that the psychological risk of depressive symptoms during pregnancy may be particularly influenced by individual factors, such as cognitive style. At the couple level, the fathers felt more responsible for their role and reported greater pressure and expectations of their responsibilities when their partner had dysfunctional maternal beliefs. The link between dysfunctional beliefs and depressive symptoms may be an important contribution to identifying parents at risk of psychological distress during pregnancy.