YOU OK DAD?
HELPING HAND FOR FIRSTTIME FATHERS
AN Australia-first study into the challenges first-time fathers face and the role of fatherhood is calling for candidates on the Gold Coast.
The new Griffith University research into the adjustment to fatherhood aims to throw a light on the mental health of partners that may at times be overlooked during one of life’s biggest changes – the journey to parenthood.
Gold Coast researcher and PhD candidate Stacey Bernardin from Griffith University’s School of Applied Psychology says there had been little research on understanding the different needs of first-time fathers and their unique experiences.
“I am a mum myself and I know going through my pregnancy people were continuously asking me how I was feeling, if I needed anything or was ready,” she said.
“People didn’t ask my husband those questions. Not that much attention is being paid to fathers as they transition through the pregnancy.
“We know so much about women and their mental health through this time but more research can be done on the impact on fathers.”
Ms Bernardin said it was the first study to look at the relationship between social factors and paternal adjustment.
“Given that fathers play a pivotal role in the family dynamic and are also increasingly expected to be handson in child-rearing, it is becoming more and more important that we understand how best to support them in their role as fathers,” she said.
“Fathers are often equally as important as mothers in facilitating child development and wellbeing, therefore research in this area is crucial if we are to promote and support healthy families in Australia.”
First-time dad Oliver Cornally, who is not taking part in the study, said he was pleased to see research into fatherhood taking place.
“I would say there was definitely a focus on my partner during pregnancy and rightly so as she was the one going through the biggest change,” Mr Cornally said.
“I found a strong focus on my role to support her but we recognise now there was no one to support me as well in my new role.
“You go through emotions and concerns like any new parent but you don’t want to add to your partner’s load.
“It was those big scary what ifs, what if I need to make the decisions and my partner is not conscious for that. I think there could be more support for fathers, for sure, it is a big life change no matter the gender.”
The study is recruiting first-time fathers nationwide aged 18 and older with a pregnant partner entering 25-35 weeks of pregnancy.