Expectant fathers' motivations, prenatal behaviors, and support given to mothers during pregnancy: A model to reduce partner violence

Singh, Vijay

Saturday, March 31, 2012: 2:10 PM-3:30 PM

Nob Hill D (San Francisco Marriott Marquis)

Speakers:
Vijay Singh, MD, MPH, MS, University of Michigan
Richard Tolman, PhD, MSW, University of Michigan

Authors:
Christie Palladino, MD, MSc, Georgia Health Sciences University
Tova B. Neugut, MSW, MS, University of Michigan
R. Neal Davis, MD, MSc, Intermountain Healthcare

Presentation Format:
Innovative/Promising Practice Program Report

Learning Objectives:

Describe a conceptual model for motivations, prenatal behaviors and partner violence in expectant first-time fathers as they relate to maternal support during pregnancy
Evaluate conceptual model through research applications in longitudinal surveys of expectant couples and semi-structured interviews of fathers
Discuss clinical and programmatic applications of model, including assessments of maternal and child health outcomes, and development of post-prenatal ultrasound interventions that promote positive fathering and partnering behaviors

Description:
Women who receive prenatal support from their partners have improved maternal and child health outcomes. Women who experience prenatal partner violence have adverse maternal and child health outcomes. A conceptual model will be presented to explain how paternal motivations and behaviors influence maternal support and partner violence. The conceptual model has grown out of couples’ surveys at three times during pregnancy, and semi-structured interviews of fathers who attended their partner’s prenatal ultrasound. Clinical, programmatic and research applications will be presented.