Children whose fathers have depression that is undiagnosed or unaddressed are more likely to exhibit social and behavioural problems. Contrary to common portrayals in popular culture, fathers are also vulnerable to depression. Approximately 8 per cent to 13 per cent of fathers experience some form of depression during their child’s early years, a figure that rises to nearly 50 per cent when the mother also suffers from post-partum depression.
To better understand the connection between paternal mental health and children's behaviour, researchers analysed data from 1,422 children whose fathers were screened for depressive symptoms when the kids were five. Four years later, their teachers completed behavioural assessments as part of a survey.
Children whose fathers reported depressive symptoms when they were five were significantly more likely, by age nine, to show signs of restlessness, defiance and anger, along with lower levels of cooperation and self-esteem.
Even after controlling for variables such as child and family characteristics and maternal depression, paternal depression was associated with a 36 per cent higher oppositional behaviour score, a 37 per cent higher hyperactivity score and a 25 per cent higher ADHD score. It was also linked to 11 per cent lower positive social skills and a 25 per cent higher overall problematic behaviour scores. These early behavioural challenges can have lasting consequences, potentially affecting a child’s academic success, mental health, employment opportunities and overall well-being into adulthood.
Identifying paternal depression early and intervening can help improve the well-being of both fathers and their children, the lead researcher said. The findings were published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine.
