ABSTRACT
Similar to stereotypes regarding the role of mothers, there are also stereotypes and role expectations concerning the transition to fatherhood. This chapter reviews the literature on the psychological transition to fatherhood and discusses key considerations and suggestions regarding how health care providers can most effectively engage new fathers in treatment. Michael Lamb, an expert in the psychology of fatherhood, argued that there is a shift in the popular understanding of the fatherhood role. According to Lamb, the phases of fatherhood in the United States have gone from the "moral father" modeling Christian values and living during Puritan times, to a focus on breadwinner during the industrialization of the mid-nineteenth century. The complex interaction of fatherhood/gender role conflict, partner social support, paternal involvement, self-efficacy, and mental health problems represent a fertile area for practitioners to assist men navigating the transition to fatherhood.
