Having a baby to save a failing relationship is ill-advised, as it introduces a new, demanding relationship requiring more attention and teamwork, further straining an already struggling partnership. Instead of revitalizing a relationship, a baby can exacerbate existing problems, requiring partners to be a stronger team and solve problems under more challenging conditions.
Having a baby to save a relationship
• 00:00:05 It's a terrible idea to have a baby to save a struggling relationship, as it's counterintuitive to believe a baby will solve problems between partners. Instead of adding vitality, a baby increases the need for teamwork and problem-solving in an already challenging situation. This advice is often given based on a 'sunk cost' fallacy, where couples feel obligated to continue a relationship due to time invested, rather than addressing the underlying issues.
Relationship challenges increase with children
• 00:01:01 Bringing a child into a relationship already lacking attention, connection, and vitality will further reduce the time and energy available for the couple. Partners must become a stronger team and face more complex problem-solving, requiring more collaboration and communication than before. This highlights that a child cannot fix existing issues, but instead increases the difficulty in managing a relationship, especially if the couple is not already in a solid and supportive partnership.