Abstract

The transition to parenthood is a critical period marked by significant personal, relational, and emotional transformations. This qualitative study aims to explore the parental representations of first-time mothers and fathers, focusing on how couples perceive their baby, themselves as parents, and their partner’s role. Seventeen couples participated, with in-depth interviews conducted during pregnancy and again after the birth of their first child. The results revealed a range of emotional responses to pregnancy: while women reported significant psychological changes as they adapted to their new maternal identity, men struggled to connect during pregnancy, finding their role more clearly defined after the birth through caregiving tasks and emotional support. The findings also illustrate how cultural and familial influences shape the construction of these representations. This study highlights the importance of interventions that support both parents during the transition to parenthood. © 2025 Terapia Psicológica.