Fathers’ help seeking behavior and attitudes during their transition to parenthood

Abstract

New fathers face multiple changes as they take on this complex, demanding, and continually shifting role. The current study aimed to understand these experiences, especially the ways fathers seek help and information while facing stressful situations. Eleven fathers completed a semi-structured interview about their transition to fatherhood and whether and how they sought help and advice through that process. Results were analyzed using an inductive thematic analysis approach. Fathers viewed themselves as supportive figures and sources of financial and emotional stability for their families. Fathers experienced anxiety and uncertainty in their transition to parenthood, and utilized a variety of ways to cope with their stress; these were categorized into individual and interpersonal coping strategies. Most relied on their partner for emotional support, but some felt uncomfortable relying on her and using her for support while she was coping with pregnancy and new parenting. This study found that fathers tended to see themselves in a rather traditional role of provider and supporter of their partners and children, and this created some stresses for work-life balance, and, for some, created a dilemma where they felt unable to seek emotional support from the person—their partner—on whom they would typically rely. These findings have important implications for fathers’ wellbeing and providing support programs for new fathers.