Active Involvement of Expectant Fathers in Pregnancy: Some Further Considerations

In this followup to her previous JOGN article, the author presents a review of the recent literature on the man's experience of pregnancy and an expanded concept of active involvement of expectant fathers in pregnancy. Active involvement of the expectant father in pregnancy, namely, the acceptance of the emotional impact of pregnancy and the construction of a mental picture of himself as a participant in the caretaking and nurturing of the infant, may enhance the father's later role in parenting. Recent research suggests that for a man to have the opportunity to participate in the early parenting experience, he must negotiate that future role with his partner during pregnancy and prepare consciously for that style of fatherhood. Much additional research is needed concerning a man's experience of pregnancy and childbearing; the concept of “active involvement” may be a springboard for such research. Better understanding of the process of paternal role development is important in the face of expanding women's roles and the increased interest among men in assuming greater childrearing responsibilities.