Facilitating Discussion Among Expectant Fathers: Is Anyone Interested?

Abstract

Within childbirth education circles, catering effectively to the needs of expectant fathers who attend antenatal education programs has become an issue of concern. This article reviews the literature on all-male discussion groups for expectant fathers as a strategy to address identified deficits in relation to the inclusion of men within existing program structures. An exploration of the attributes considered appropriate for those who facilitate such groups is undertaken, and the article concludes with a report on the recruitment of male facilitators at a health service in New South Wales, Australia.

Parent education interventions designed to support the transition to parenthood: A realist review

“…One programme offered participants financial incentives in the form of a small stipend and still reported an attrition rate of 20% (Heinrichs and Jensen-Doss, 2010). Many articles discussed the important role that the facilitator played in the success of the programme, with several authors specifically identifying that male facilitators increased the engagement and ongoing participation of fathers (Barnes, 2003;Doherty et al, 2006;Fagan, 2008;Friedewald, 2007;McMillan et al, 2009;Potter and Carpenter, 2010).…”

“…To help support parents during this challenging time, public health units have consistently used nurse facilitators to deliver parent education (prenatal and postnatal) as a primary strategy (Friedewald, 2007). Parent education is defined as ''a process that involves the expansion of insights, understanding, and attitudes and the acquisition of knowledge and skills about the development of both parents and their children and the relationships between them'' (Campbell and Palm, 2004, p. 18).…”

Father inclusive practice in a parenting and early childhood organisation: The development and analysis of a staff survey

“…As such, although the vast majority of the content in parenting services is likely to also be applicable for fathers, there are many barriers to fathers engaging in these services if they are not developed and delivered with fathers in mind. There is also evidence that some fathers may benefit from father-specific support (Friedewald 2007), and in this sample most participants (78%) were aware of such services.…”

Discussion Forums for Expectant Fathers: The Perspectives of Male Educators

“…The RPs were asked to identify the reasons for submitting a formal application for the advertised position of male educator at CCHS in 2003 (see Friedewald, 2007). Two reasons were common among the responses.…”

“…Discussion about the attributes and qualifications of persons involved in the facilitation of such groups is also limited (see Lee & Schmied, 2001;Symon & Lee, 2003). A prequel to this article outlined the strategy initiated by the CCHS for recruitment of male educators, the level of response to the advertisements, and the background of persons recruited to the position (see Friedewald, 2007). Of the original nine males who commenced, eight have remained employed on a ''per session'' basis for a period of 3 years.…”