Paternal commitment and its association with health-promoting behaviors

Abstract

Objective To identify the association of paternal commitment and health-promoting behaviors. Methods Correlational and predictive study in 160 parents attended in two Family Health Centers, who responded to the scales of paternal involvement and lifestyles II, as well as biosociodemographic questions. Results On average, 78.1% of the fathers were highly committed. The variables that positively influence paternal commitment are health-promoting behaviors, and their participation in childbirth and routine checkups of their children. Age had a negative influence on paternal commitment. Higher correlations of paternal commitment were observed in the dimensions spiritual growth and interpersonal relationships, while it was lower in the physical activity dimension. Father's commitment was mostly evident in activities done together with their children such as feeding, dressing and playing. Conclusion Fathers participate more actively in the upbringing of their children. Considering that they are implicitly health role models for children, there is a clear need to create and/or maintain strategies to encourage health-promoting behaviors in fathers by health professionals, since they favorably influence paternal commitment.