Parental stress during pregnancy linked to behavioural problems in toddlersAccording to a recent study, expectant parents’ emotional struggles predict emotional and behavioural problems in 2-year-olds. Washington D.C: According to a recent study, expectant parents' emotional struggles predict emotional and behavioural problems in 2-year-olds. The same study revealed that couple conflict helps explain emotional problems in very young children. The study drew on the experiences of 438 first-time expectant mothers and fathers who were followed up at 4, 14 and 24 months after birth. Co-author Dr Rory Devine said, "Our data demonstrate that mental health problems during pregnancy have a unique impact on children's behaviour problems.