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The association between paternal PTSD and child mental health: a systematic literature review

Liquori L Etheridge1, Sungseek Moon2, Aynsley H Scheffert3

  • 1Social Work, Baylor University, Waco, USA. liquori_etheridge1@baylor.edu.

Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Mental Health
|May 18, 2026
PubMed

Insights

Paternal Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is linked to higher rates of psychopathology in children. Maternal mental health may influence this association, highlighting the need for further research into family dynamics and trauma transmission.

Area of Science:

  • Psychology
  • Child Development
  • Trauma Studies

Background:

  • Fathers significantly impact children's psychosocial development.
  • Paternal Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can negatively affect offspring well-being.
  • Understanding this link is crucial for early intervention.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To systematically review the relationship between paternal PTSD and child/adolescent psychopathology.
  • To synthesize existing research on how paternal trauma influences offspring mental health.
  • To identify gaps in current knowledge regarding paternal PTSD and child development.

Main Methods:

  • Systematic literature search across major databases (PsycINFO, PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, PILOTS).
  • Inclusion criteria focused on studies examining paternal PTSD and offspring psychopathology.
  • Analysis of six selected studies meeting the review's criteria.

Main Results:

  • A significant association exists between paternal PTSD and increased risk of depression, anxiety, and behavioral disorders in children.
  • Paternal PTSD impacts emotional, cognitive, and social development in offspring.
  • Maternal mental health status may moderate the effects of paternal PTSD on children.

Conclusions:

  • Paternal PTSD poses a risk to children's mental health, increasing psychopathology prevalence.
  • Maternal well-being is a potential protective or risk factor in offspring outcomes.
  • Further research is needed on trauma transmission mechanisms and family dynamics.

Keywords:
AdolescentAnxietyBehavior disordersChildrenDepressionFatherHyper-activity attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)PTSDPaternalTeen

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