This qualitative study aimed to investigate the implementation of, and satisfaction with, a telephone-based peer support program for new fathers.
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The fathers appreciated the affirming stories shared by their peers, as these stories served as valuable examples that they could adapt and incorporate into their own parenting approaches. The fellow parents felt valued and acted as role models for the new fathers and helped them adjust to parenthood. The results of this study provide valuable insights into the potential benefits and challenges of implementing a telephone-based peer support program for first-time fathers, which could further insight similar interventions.
What does the publication mean for research?
This type of support has never before been used for fathers in Sweden and Karolinska is the first to investigate this support. There is a lack of support for new fathers today, so it is extremely important to be able to offer support, both for the father’s well-being but also for the whole family’s well-being. We will continue a collaboration with the organization MÄN.
What happens next? How do you proceed after the publication?
We are planning to do a randomized controlled trial to see the effect of this intervention on fathers’ psychological well-being.
What insights did you gain during your research period?
Now we know this new intervention will work for new dads, both dads and supporters testify that this type of support is important and that there is a lack of support for expectant/new dads in care. Fathers felt more secure in their parenting and had the support they needed. The supporters, in turn, gained new insights and learned how to talk about feelings that they otherwise would not have experienced.
