Research Focus 4: Developing Interventions that Include Fathers
Brief Overview of Clinical Problem
While fathers’ roles vary widely between and within different social and cultural groups, today most fathers have an active role in childcare. As such, fathers can significantly influence child development. A recent meta-analysis suggests that approximately 10.4% of fathers will experience depression in the first year postpartum. Among fathers whose partners experience postpartum depression, the incidence of paternal postpartum depression rises to 25-50%. Unfortunately, much of the perinatal research has excluded fathers. Dr. Dennis’ research is developing interventions that include fathers.