All-Male Discussion Forums for Expectant Fathers: Evaluation of a Model

Abstract

This paper describes an all-male discussion forum for expectant fathers led by a male facilitator. The 617 participants completed an evaluation form and were unanimous in their agreement about the benefits of the forum, in particular the opportunity to discuss issues of importance to them with others in a similar situation. The results should encourage those developing antenatal education programs to be more inclusive of expectant fathers and to acknowledge their feelings, unique role, and contribution.

Paternal Fears of Childbirth: A Literature Review

“…Similar to Chandler and Field's (1997) findings, the fathers in Premberg and Lundgren's study perceived childbirth classes as being designed for women, and they felt their participation was a secondary event. The fathers' thoughts were also consistent with findings reported by Friedewald et al (2005): Fathers value and prefer small all-male groups for sharing information and experiences about childbirth. In general, most study results indicate that childbirth education is much more helpful and supportive to mothers than to fathers (Kunjappy-Clifton, 2007;White, 2007); men's desire for practical information and instruction regarding participation in the birth is not met in antenatal classes (Beardshaw, 2001;Chandler & Field, 1997); and, as in childbirth, fathers feel relegated to a secondary role during prenatal classes (Kunjappy-Clifton, 2007).…”

“…Perhaps related to this viewpoint is that a majority of fathers' concerns when asked about birth relate to fatherhood, parenthood, and sexual activity, but not the birthing process itself (Callister, 1995;Dellman, 2004). Friedewald, Fletcher, and Fairbairn (2005) developed a discussion forum including only expectant fathers to explore areas of importance for men. The forum focused, from a paternal standpoint, on topics related to pregnancy and childbirth, awareness of the importance of the paternal role during childbirth and the postpartum period, and discussion of issues of particular concern to men (male circumcision, breastfeeding, postpartum depression).…”

“…Their supportive role takes place at the same vulnerable time during their transition into the father role. Additionally, because of present institutional educational strategies, fathers feel fearful regarding a myriad of real and imagined hazards, as well as confused about their role during childbirth and unprepared for the actual childbirth event (Bartels, 1999;Friedewald et al, 2005;Premberg & Lundgren, 2006). Therefore, promoting the acknowledgment of paternal fears may require more innovative methodological approaches in future research.…”

The Concerns and Interests of Expectant and New Parents: Assessing Learning Needs

“…The women, however, appeared keen to learn practical tips about baby care and breastfeeding. Men, like the women, appeared frustrated and anxious when their information needs were not met, which reinforced previous researchers' recommendations that men have specific needs and should be integrated into antenatal education (Friedewald, Fletcher, & Fairbairn, 2005;Friedewald & Newing, 2006;Premberg & Lundgren, 2006;Schott, 2002;Somers-Smith, 1999).…”

Parenthood Education in Swedish Antenatal Care: Perceptions of Midwives and Obstetricians in Charge

“…The respondents' opinions were that having male leaders for the father-to-be sessions is very important, but such sessions are not sufficiently available. In Australia, parenthood education programs have used fatherfacilitators with good results (Friedwald, Fletcher, & Fairbairn, 2005).…”