Effects of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and Depression on Paternal Attachment to High-Risk Infants

Abstract

Purpose: This study has sought to determine the levels of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and attachment among fathers raising high-risk infants and to identify the factors influencing paternal attachment.Methods: The participants were 85 fathers who were raising high-risk infants aged 6 months or younger and visiting a general hospital in Busan Metropolitan City. A structured questionnaire was administered to collect information on the general characteristics of fathers and children, PTSD, depression, and attachment. Hierarchical regression analysis was conducted to identify the factors associated with paternal attachment.Results: The average scores reported by fathers were as follows: 4.68±0.27 out of 5 for attachment, 19.51±15.40 out of 88 for PTSD, and 13.21±10.07 out of 60 for depression. Among fathers, 29.4% and 20% experienced PTSD and depression, respectively. The first model revealed that the use of a ventilator, the age of the infant, and desired sex of the infant were associated with paternal attachment, predicting 30% of the variance. In the second model, in which PTSD and depression were added, PTSD influenced paternal attachment. This model predicts a 52% variance.Conclusion: The formation of paternal attachment, which begins immediately after a child’s birth, plays a crucial role in a child’s cognitive, emotional, and social development. To enhance the attachment of fathers raising high-risk newborns, neonatal nurses should screen fathers for PTSD early and plan appropriate interventions.