First-Time Fathers' Perspectives on Pregnancy, Birth, and Fatherhood

First-time Fathers’ Perspectives on Pregnancy, Birth, and Fatherhood by Lynette M. Talley MSN, University California San Francisco, 2001 BSN, Linfield School of Nursing, 1998 Dissertation Submitted in Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy Health Psychology Walden University August 2017 Abstract Ineffectively addressing a first-time fathers’ perception of pregnancy, childbirth, and fatherhood by medical providers and other medical personnel, may lead to problems of inadequate support, increased tension, anger, concern, and fear at a personal level and between partners. The purpose of this interpretive phenomenological study was to explore the perspective of first-time fathers during pregnancy, childbirth, and fatherhood.Ineffectively addressing a first-time fathers’ perception of pregnancy, childbirth, and fatherhood by medical providers and other medical personnel, may lead to problems of inadequate support, increased tension, anger, concern, and fear at a personal level and between partners. The purpose of this interpretive phenomenological study was to explore the perspective of first-time fathers during pregnancy, childbirth, and fatherhood. The biopsychosocial model was used as the framework to provide the foundation for this study. Research questions addressed first-time fathers’ biggest fears, deepest concerns, and most embarrassing questions related to pregnancy, childbirth, and fatherhood as well as the emotion and physical changes that a first-time father may encounter. Data from 12 participants was collected using one-on-one interviews. These interviews were analyzed, utilizing the biopsychosocial model as a guide for assessing social, psychological, and physical relationships and themes. Several themes were identified; including both positive and negative themes, such as mood swings, and watching the belly grow during pregnancy. During labor, themes such as, it was a life changing experience and fear of something happening to the baby or mom during labor weigh heavy on the minds of first time fathers. Themes identified in fatherhood included becoming more selfless and responsible, fear of making a mistake as a father, and the difficulties of fatherhood. The findings of this study will contribute to positive social change by providing a basis for developing appropriate and effective educational programs that will assist first-time fathers in optimizing their role throughout pregnancy, childbirth, and fatherhood. First-Time Fathers’ Perspectives on Pregnancy, Birth, and Fatherhood by Lynette M. Talley MSN, University California San Francisco, 2001 BSN, Linfield School of Nursing, 1998 Dissertation Submitted in Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy Health Psychology Walden University August 2017 Dedication This dissertation is dedicated to God, because with him all things are possible. I would also like to dedicate this project to my very dear friend, Annette, who gave up her own time to help me proof read, and edit papers throughout this profound journey. I would like to thank my family for all of their support and encouragement during this process. Finally, I would like to pay a special tribute to my sweet husband who has stuck by me through rough times, and the good times, who remained my biggest cheerleader, but most of all provided me the encouragement to keep pushing forward to the reach the goal. I thank everyone from the bottom of my heart for your love, and support during the pursuit of my degree. Acknowledgments During the course of writing my dissertation, many people have offered their support, encouragement, and prayers, and I would like to take this moment to thank each one of you. I must acknowledge my chair, Dr. Deaton, for his dedication and encouragement. His feedback and suggestions helped me to produce a scholarly dissertation. I would also like to thank my committee member, Dr. Stadtlander, who had the fortitude to encourage change, to offer feedback, and to direct and guide me through this journey. I would also like to than the URR, Dr Herndon, for contributing to my success. Lastly, I would like to thank each one of the participants for giving up their time to assist in this project, ultimately contributing to future research.