Paternal depression and attachment levels of first-time fathers in Turkey

Purpose Paternal depression and inadequate attachment experienced in the postpartum period may be associated with future emotional and behavioural problems of children. This study aimed to investigate the paternal depression and attachment levels of first-time fathers. Design and Methods The sample of this descriptive study consisted of 175 fathers with 3-6 months old babies whose wives applied to the polyclinic for check-up. Findings When the cut-off point of the scale was evaluated at 13 and above in this study, the risk of depression was found to be 14.2%. The level of attachment decreases as fathers' risk of depression increases (p < 0.05). Practice implications There is a risk of depression in fathers in the postpartum period. The level of attachment decreases as fathers' risk of depression increases.