Alexithymia and Fetal Attachment in Expectant Fathers

Abstract

Introduction: Although studies mostly focus on mothers, fathers also experience emotional problems and bond with their unborn babies in the antenatal period. The aim of this study is to examine alexithymia and fetal attachment in expectant fathers.
 Methods: The study was carried out online via social media with 145 expectant fathers. Data were collected using Toronto Alexithymia Scale-20, and Paternal Antenatal Attachment Scale.
 Results: The prevalence of alexithymia in expectant fathers was 24.8%. Alexithymia scores of university graduates had lower, while those with insufficient income and those who have two or more children were found to have less total attachment scores. A significant negative relationship was found between alexithymia scores and attachment scores.
 Conclusion: Fathers with alexithymic characteristics tend to have less attachment to the fetus. Supporting fathers with alexithymic features may positively affect attachment to the fetus.