The present study investigated impressions and feelings of eight mothers who were interviewed concerning the relationship with their firstborn child during the pregnancy of their second child. Based on content analysis, the results indicated that the new pregnancy required a redefinition of mother's relationship with her firstborn child and of her maternal identity. Because mother was emotionally involved with the baby, as well as physical restrictions of the pregnancy, limitations of the interaction between the mother and her firstborn child during play and in daily care were reported. The results suggest the importance of the family's social network and, eventually, the necessity of intervention programs for families involved in the transition process of having a second child.
mother-firstborn relationship; pregnancy; second child
