Comparison of the experience of women and men in dual-earner families following the birth of their first infant.

This paper describes an extension of the concept of "redefining roles" developed from an initial study that described the experience of eight women in dual-earner families following the birth of their first infant. A second study used redefining roles as a springboard and described the experience of ten men. Although constant comparative analysis generated a core variable in both studies best described as "redefining roles," the two groups redefined their roles somewhat differently. When the women redefined their roles, they took on multiple roles, experienced role strain, and reduced role strain. The men monitored and limited role strain. The implications for nursing practice are outlined.