partners were warmer and more sensitive with their children and fathers in close and confiding relationships held more positive attitudes toward their infants. These effects were found even after controlling for parents' psychological adjustment. In another study, Easterbrooks and Emde (1988) found that observed harmony between parents was associated with positive affect sharing, physical affection and expressions of approval during interactions with their children. Importantly, these researchers noted that the marital relationship may be particularly important during challenging developmental periods such as the transition to parenthood and early toddlerhood. As such, any disruptions in marital quality that result from parental drinking may be important to document during these critical stages of development.
