Citation

Habib C, Lancaster S. Fathering 2006; 4(3): 235-253.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2006, Men's Studies Press)

DOI

10.3149/fth.0403.235

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Within the framework of identity theory, this paper explores the emergence of the father status and its relationship with paternal fetal bonding in the first trimester of pregnancy. A sample of 115 first-time Australian fathers completed measures of their identity set and prominence of their father status, an exploratory measure of their father status content, and a measure of paternal fetal bonding. Expectant fathers reported their spousal and father status as most central to who they were. Regression analyses lent some support to the hypothesis that fetal bonding would be predicted by father status prominence and content. The results are discussed with reference to limitations and future directions.