Canadian Fathers’ Preferences for Support During the Transition to Fatherhood

Abstract

While there is growing recognition that fathers lack social support during the transition to fatherhood, little is known about the types of services fathers would access. An online survey was conducted with Canadian fathers asking about the type and helpfulness of support they sought. Participants also rated their interest in, convenience of, and the likelihood of using alternative options. All fathers sought support and the majority relied on partners, friends, and family. Fathers were equally likely to have accessed online support versus support from professionals. While fathers rated face-to-face interactions as potentially helpful, they rated online sources as most convenient.