Abstract
Objective: Using data from the Australian First-Time Fathers Study, this article investigates the relationship between a father's antenatal attachment to his foetus and his subsequent attachment to his infant at 6 and 12 months postnatally. Method: 204 first-time expectant fathers were assessed, and subsequently reassessed at 6 and 12 months postpartum on a large number of measures (including attachment). Results: Findings highlight the strong continuity of attachment across these three assessment points, as well as the important influence of the man's partner relationship and mental well-being on his attachment. Conclusion: Pregnancy provides a potential window of opportunity for enhancing antenatal attachment in expectant fathers, with potential long-term benefits for the future father-child relationship.
Original language | English |
---|---|
Pages (from-to) | 15-30 |
Number of pages | 16 |
Journal | Journal of Reproductive and Infant Psychology |
Volume | 31 |
Issue number | 1 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 2013 |
Keywords
- antenatal attachment
- father-infant attachment
- fatherhood
- male mental health
- partner relationship