0
0
NEW BRUNSWICK, NJ – April 16, 2025 – Challenging the pervasive cultural image of the perpetually strong and stoic father, new research underscores the significant impact a dad’s mental health can have on his children’s long-term development. A study led by researchers at Rutgers Health reveals that paternal depression, particularly around the time a child enters kindergarten, is linked to increased behavioral difficulties and poorer social skills in those children several years later.
The findings, published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine, suggest that the negative effects of unaddressed paternal depression can persist long after the initial period. Kristine Schmitz, an assistant professor of pediatrics at Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School (RWJMS) and lead author of the study, collaborated with researchers from RWJMS, Princeton University, and Rider University.
“We need to consider depression in both parents, not just mothers,” urged Schmitz. “Depression is treatable, and to support the whole family, pediatricians must start talking with dads about it and developing father-focused interventions that meet their needs.”
While awareness of maternal postpartum depression has grown, paternal depression often receives less attention, despite affecting an estimated 8% to 13% of fathers in the U.S. during their child’s early years. This rate can jump to 50% when the mother also experiences postpartum depression. This study specifically aimed to explore the effects of paternal depression beyond the immediate postnatal phase.
Researchers analyzed data from the Future of Families and Child Wellbeing Study (FFCWS), a large-scale project tracking families in 20 U.S. cities since 1998-2000. They focused on 1,422 fathers who were screened for depressive symptoms when their children were five years old (entering kindergarten). Subsequently, when the children reached age nine, their teachers provided assessments of their behavior and social skills.
After controlling for sociodemographic factors and maternal depression, the study found a clear link: children whose fathers reported symptoms of depression at age five were significantly more likely at age nine to exhibit behaviors such as restlessness, defiance, and anger. Teachers also reported lower levels of cooperation and self-esteem in these children.
The researchers noted that kindergarten entry is a crucial developmental stage, and difficulties during this period can set the stage for ongoing challenges in school. Potential reasons for the link include depression impacting parenting quality, reducing emotional support for the child, or increasing conflict within the home.
Schmitz highlighted that this is the first U.S. population-based study to establish such a definitive connection between paternal depression at this stage and later school behavior. The findings strongly suggest that identifying and supporting fathers struggling with depression could significantly benefit their children’s well-being.
Despite the concerning findings, the study offers a message of hope. Early identification and intervention can improve outcomes for both fathers and their children. “As parents, we can model that when we struggle, we reach out and get help,” Schmitz concluded. “That’s a lesson children will carry for a lifetime.”
The research article is titled “Paternal Depression at Kindergarten Entry and Teacher-Reported Behavior at Age 9 Years” (DOI: 10.1016/j.amepre.2025.01.017).
Disclaimer: This news article is based on information provided from a research study summary published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine. It is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Individuals concerned about their mental health or the mental health of a family member should consult with qualified healthcare professionals.
