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The father-infant relationship: becoming connected

¹Faculty of Nursing, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada. aanderso@ua-nursing.ualberta.ca

Journal of the Society of Pediatric Nurses : JSPN

|July 1, 1996

Summary

This study reveals that first-time fathers develop their infant relationship by committing, connecting, and making space for the baby. Understanding these father-infant bonding experiences aids in supportive care.

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Area of Science:

Parenting and Child Development
Family Studies
Psychology

Background:

The paternal role in infant development is increasingly recognized.
Early father-infant bonding is crucial for child and family well-being.
Limited research exists on fathers' initial experiences in the first two months postpartum.

Purpose of the Study:

To explore fathers' lived experiences of developing a relationship with their infants.
To understand the initial stages of the father-infant bond during the first two months of life.

Main Methods:

Grounded theory approach utilized for in-depth exploration.
Semistructured interviews conducted in fathers' homes or agreed-upon sites.
14 first-time fathers (ages 28-44, middle class, Caucasian) participated.

Main Results:

Three core categories emerged in developing the father-infant relationship: making a commitment, becoming connected, and making room for the baby.
Constant comparative method used for thematic analysis.
Fathers' perceptions of their fathering selves, infants, and the relationship were elicited.

Conclusions:

Findings provide insight into the paternal journey of early infant bonding.
Nurses can use this understanding to offer humanistic and supportive care to fathers.
Facilitating the father-infant relationship enhances family dynamics and infant outcomes.

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