Sources of parenting support in early fatherhood: Perspectives of United States Air Force members

• Published in: Children and youth services review 2013-05, Vol.35 (5), p.908-915
• Main Authors: Lee, Shawna J., Neugut, Tova B., Rosenblum, Katherine L., Tolman, Richard M., Travis, Wendy J., Walker, Margaret H.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Father; Men; Military; Pregnancy; Technology
• ISSN: 0190-7409; 1873-7765
• DOI: 10.1016/j.childyouth.2013.02.012

We conducted semi-structured focus groups with men in the United States Air Force (N=39) to examine fathers' access to parenting information during the transition to parenthood, and to determine methods for engaging fathers in intervention. Results of content analysis highlight fathers' motivation to develop and maintain positive relationships with their partners and children despite substantial challenges, including multiple deployments, family moves, and demanding work responsibilities. Fathers emphasize the importance of information in facilitating the transition to parenthood, especially in the key domains of effective co-parenting and communication, children's developmental milestones, and appropriate use of discipline. Results underscore that men tend to rely more on informal sources of parenting information (e.g., spouse/partner, family members, friends) than on formal sources of information (e.g., pediatricians, social workers). •Gaps exist in men's access and participation in parenting resources and programs.•Fathers desire education on developmental milestones and co-parenting communication.•Fathers report high satisfaction with U.S. Air Force parenting services.•Balancing family and military responsibilities is a priority.