Paternal Postpartum Depression: The Role of Maternal Postpartum Depression, Spousal Support, and Relationship Satisfaction

Although research on paternal postpartum depression (PPD) is relatively scarce, two recent meta-analytic reviews have identified maternal PPD as the strongest predictor of paternal PPD. Despite the association between maternal and paternal PPD, no research currently exists exploring how maternal influences paternal PPD. Based on a family systems framework and the relationship enhancement model, we proposed decreased spousal support and relationship satisfaction would explain the association between maternal and paternal PPD. Using data gathered at 1 and 9 months postpartum from 92 couples making the transition to parenthood, we found maternal and paternal PPD are indirectly linked through the pathways of impaired spousal support and reduced relationship satisfaction. This study provides evidence into the importance of spousal relationship functioning to paternal mental health during the postpartum period.