A Typology of Detachment/ Involvement Styles Adopted During Pregnancy By First-Time Expectant Fathers

Abstract

This paper reports an exploratory study of the experience of first-time expectant fathers that generated a grounded theory that describes a typology of detachment/involvement styles adopted by first-time expectant fathers. This paper is in three parts. First is a brief summary of the existing literature on expectant fatherhood. Following that, the design and methodology of the study will be described. The typology of detachment/involvement styles will then be presented, and the factors that contribute to adoption of a given style discussed. Finally, some implications of this research for pregnancy and birth care will be suggested, and directions for future research outlined.