Journey Through The Postpartum Phase Experiences of First Time Fathers in Malaysia

This research provides an in-depth exploration of the varied obstacles and support systems encountered by novice fathers in Malaysia after childbirth. Adopting a phenomenological research approach, the investigation interacted with 10 first-time fathers residing in Malaysia. The participant selection was driven by purposive sampling. The data was solely collected through semi-structured interviews, enabling a thorough examination of the participants' lived experiences. The results unearth an assortment of hurdles experienced by first-time fathers, moving beyond monetary obligations to include emotional and societal aspects. These hurdles are intensified by social norms and the limitations of current support structures. These revelations emphasize the demand for a multi-dimensional strategy to strengthen the support framework for new fathers. Moreover, they offer key perspectives that could inform the construction of focused policies and community activities to cultivate a better support system for first-time fathers during the postnatal period. Consequently, this research acts as a seminal resource for subsequent studies on fatherly experiences and support resources during initial parenthood.