Temporal dynamics of interpersonal trust during the transition to parenthood

Theories and laboratory research in social psychology associate parenthood with increased vigilance distrust. Yet, longitudinal studies examining whether the transition to affects trust real life are lacking. We examined temporal dynamics of surrounding a sample adults followed for up 12 years. used discontinuous change models propensity score matching compare first-time parents matched childless individuals. Parenthood predicted gradual increase following childbirth. The effect was unidirectional: Baseline level did not predict likelihood follow-up These findings contribute literature on how major events, such as parenthood, shape interpersonal trust.