Untreated perinatal paternal depression: Effects on offspring
Salvatore Gentile1, Maria Luigia Fusco2
1Department of Mental Health ASL Salerno, Piazza Galdi, 841013 Cava de' Tirreni, Salerno, Italy; University of Naples, Medical School "Federico II", Department of Neurosciences, Perinatal Psychiatry, Via S. Pansini, 5, 80131 Naples, Italy.
Psychiatry Research
|March 18, 2017
Summary
Untreated paternal depression during the perinatal period increases offspring risks for developmental, behavioral, and psychiatric disorders. A family-centered approach to perinatal mental health is crucial for improving outcomes for parents and children.
Area of Science:
- Perinatal Mental Health
- Child Psychology
- Developmental Psychiatry
Background:
- Parenthood transition heightens vulnerability to psychological disorders.
- Paternal mental health significantly impacts offspring development.
- Limited research exists on the effects of untreated paternal perinatal depression.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review studies on the impact of untreated paternal perinatal depression on offspring.
- To identify developmental and behavioral outcomes associated with paternal depression.
- To inform public health strategies for perinatal mental health.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature search of MEDLINE, PsycINFO, and Science.gov (1980-2016).
- Inclusion of 23 peer-reviewed studies investigating paternal perinatal depression and offspring outcomes.
- Analysis of methodological limitations in existing research.
Main Results:
- Paternal depression is linked to increased offspring risk for developmental and behavioral problems.
- Infants and toddlers may exhibit increased crying, hyperactivity, conduct issues, and developmental impairment.
- School-aged children of depressed fathers face a doubled risk for psychiatric disorders.
Conclusions:
- Untreated paternal perinatal depression poses significant risks to child development and mental health.
- Methodological limitations in current studies necessitate further rigorous research.
- A family-centered approach, complementing gender-focused strategies, is vital for effective perinatal mental health programs.
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