The relationship between dyadic adjustment and psychiatric symptomatology in expectant couples: An actor-partner interdependency model approach.

•Dyadic functioning influences the level of psychiatric symptomatology in couples.•An actor-partner interdependence model examined the effects of mothers’ and fathers’ adjustment on psychopathology in 137 couples.•Positive fathers’ dyadic adjustment decreased clinical symptoms in mothers.•Dyadic adjustment resulted as an important element for effective interpersonal relationships in couples.•The findings of the study support the promotion of educational and prevention programs for emotional adjustment in couples.