Final answer:
Research on the transition to parenthood does not support the notion that becoming parents always wreaks havoc on married life; rather, it shows that while children change martial relationships, the impact is not universally negative. Marital communication and realistic expectations are key to managing this transition. Additionally, one should not have children solely to save a marriage.
Step-by-step explanation:
The research exploring the transition to parenthood suggests various implications for marital life, but not all are negative or deterministic. Among the bottom line messages, the one exception is c) becoming parents always wreaks havoc on married life. This statement is overly generalized and does not recognize the nuances of individual experiences or the various outcomes of parenthood on marriages. It's widely accepted that having children changes a marital relationship, often bringing both challenges and rewards. Working on marital communication skills before having a child is advised as it can help couples navigate the complexities of parenthood together. Another important perspective is that one should not have children solely to save a marriage, as this can add pressure and potentially exacerbate pre-existing issues. On the contrary, having a child in hopes of repairing a struggling marriage (a) never have children to save a marriage) is not a message supported by research. Significant stressors on marriage include the financial and emotional demands of raising children, especially in the era where both partners may have demanding careers. While the transition to parenthood can contribute to stress in a marriage, it's also acknowledged that children do not necessarily discourage positive views on marriage and family life in general.