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Father-to-infant attachment and its associated factors during COVID-19 pandemic: a cross-sectional study

Pelin Dikmen-Yildiz1

  • 1Department of Psychology, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Kirklareli University, Kirklareli, Türkiye.

Journal of Reproductive and Infant Psychology
|July 23, 2024
PubMed

Insights

Paternal depression and COVID-19 distress negatively impacted father-infant attachment, while relationship satisfaction and social support improved it. Paternal mental health is crucial for early father-infant bonding, especially during pandemics.

Area of Science:

  • Psychology
  • Public Health
  • Developmental Science

Background:

  • Father-infant attachment is vital for child development and well-being.
  • Limited research exists on father-infant attachment during the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • This study addresses this gap by examining associated factors during the pandemic.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate psychological, interpersonal, and health-related factors influencing father-to-infant attachment.
  • To understand these influences in fathers of infants aged 3-12 months postpartum.
  • To provide insights relevant to the COVID-19 pandemic context.

Main Methods:

  • An online cross-sectional study was conducted from June to December 2021.
  • 775 fathers with infants aged 3-12 months participated.
  • Data collected included measures of depression, COVID-19 distress, relationship satisfaction, social support, and health factors.

Main Results:

  • Paternal depression, COVID-19 distress, and relationship satisfaction significantly affected father-infant attachment.
  • Social support positively influenced father-infant attachment.
  • Paternal depression emerged as the most influential factor, impacting other relationships.

Conclusions:

  • Paternal psychological well-being is critical for establishing healthy father-infant attachment.
  • Satisfied interpersonal relationships are important for promoting early father-infant bonding, particularly during crises.
  • Findings underscore the need for supportive interventions for fathers during public health emergencies.
Abstract

Keywords:
AttachmentCOVID-19fathersinfantspandemicpaternal

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