Dyadic expectations of cooperation and support in the transition to parenthood

Abstract Objective The purpose was to examine dyadic (in)congruent expectations of first‐time expectant parents regarding future coparental cooperation, caregiving responsibilities, and partner support, and explore how gendered assumptions and structural factors (e.g., parental leave) shape these expectations. Background The transition to parenthood involves major psychological, relational, and practical changes. Although previous research has emphasized coparenting after birth, less is known about how expectant parents anticipate and construct shared or divergent roles before their child arrives. Method This qualitative study is part of the CopaGloba longitudinal project on coparenting. Semistructured individual interviews were conducted with 34 Portuguese heterosexual couples ( N = 68) in the third trimester of pregnancy. Thematic and dyadic interview analysis were used to identify shared and divergent expectations. Results Five coparental representation patterns emerged. Congruent patterns were (a) Partners in Learning and (b) Mentor–Mentee, and incongruent patterns were (c) Mother‐as‐Mentor/Father‐as‐Partner, (d) Mother‐as‐Partner/Father‐as‐Mentee, and (e) Ambiguous couples. Gendered caregiving assumptions, breastfeeding, and leave policies shaped these expectations. Conclusion Expectant parents hold diverse representations of future cooperation, shaped by gender norms and policy contexts. Implications These findings highlight the importance of addressing coparental expectations during the prenatal period. Supporting couples in articulating their roles, responsibilities, and mutual support can strengthen early coparenting dynamics and inform the development of preventive, family‐focused interventions.