New Dad Study (Version - 1)
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Testing the feasibility and acceptability of an intervention to improve first time fathers’transition to fatherhood focusing on the role of mental health and wellbeing
IRAS ID
203629
Contact name
Debra Bick
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
King's College London
Duration of Study in the UK
2 years, 11 months, 31 days
Research summary
The transition to fatherhood is a vulnerable time in men’s lives. Up to 10% of fathers suffer from depression following birth, which impacts negatively on fathers, mothers and their children, and increases the cost to society. Very little is known about effective interventions to support fathers. This study will explore an intervention to improve first time fathers' transition to fatherhood focusing on mental health and wellbeing.
The three research questions are:
1. What is already known about men’s mental health and wellbeing during their transition to fatherhood?
2. How do first-time fathers perceive their mental health and wellbeing needs during this transition?
3. What is the feasibility and acceptability of implementation of the Promotional Guide System by first-time fathers to support their mental health and wellbeing, and the health professionals responsible for delivering the intervention?
The first question will be answered through a Systematic review, the second through qualitative interviews with 15-20 first time fathers, and the thirds through an observational cohort study. An intervention known as the 'Promotional Guides System' will be tested, where up to 50 first time fathers from two London sites will be asked to complete one questionnaire in the antenatal period and two more in the postnatal period. The questionnaires will include measures based on commonly used tools in the area of perinatal mental health and wellbeing. In addition, in-depth qualitative interviews will be carried out with up to 20 of these fathers.
To inform the process evaluation a purposive sample of 20 health visitors, who have had experience of delivering the Promotional Guides will be recruited for either interviews or observations. This study will increase understanding of fathers’ mental health and wellbeing and highlight ways to better address their needs.Total duration of this project is 4 years – April 2016 – March 2020.
REC name
London - Fulham Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
17/LO/0815
Date of REC Opinion
20 Jun 2017
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion