The Perceived Parenting Self-Efficacy of First-Time Fathers Caring for Very-Low-Birth-Weight Infants

OBJECTIVE: Although the period after the birth of their infant is a difficult and complex time for first-time parents who have to attain new abilities, knowledge, and skills, parents of very-low-birth-weight (VLBW) infants (<1500 g) face even greater challenges. Parenting self-efficacy has been found to play a key role in the transition to parenthood and has been linked with positive behavioral outcomes. Although many studies have attempted to describe the needs and experiences of mothers in this area, very little is yet known about fathers. DESIGN: Using a qualitative, descriptive method, this study explored the factors that first-time fathers of a VLBW infant perceive to influence their parenting self-efficacy beliefs. SETTING: The study was conducted though a neonatal follow-up clinic in an urban setting in Canada. PARTICIPANTS: Five participants were recruited though convenience sampling. RESULTS: Thematic coding analysis revealed five key themes that fathers identified as influencing their perceived self-efficacy: learning from capable role models, personal experiences, the importance of personal beliefs and traits, positive reinforcement, and infant health status. CONCLUSIONS: The study results highlight the needs of first-time fathers of VLBW infants in the early period after birth and offer guidance to nurses as to how they might foster self-efficacy during this time.