Abstract:
Developing a strong relationship is essential for optimal child development and it is
possible for fathers to fully participate in developing this close bond. Men often develop
this relationship through interactive play which usually occurs later in their child's
development. As a result, fathers often feel dissatisfied with their ability to form a close
attachment in the early post-partum period, which in turn may increase their stress level.
However, men can be prepared for the transition to fatherhood if they develop the
knowledge and skill necessary to create positive relationships with their infants. Infant
massage appears to be a viable option for teaching fathers care-giving sensitivity. To
build on the notion of teaching fathers attachment system behaviour in early infancy, a
quasi-experimental, mixed methods study was employed. Twenty-four infant-father
dyads were recruited for the study. The fathers were asked to fill out the Parent Stress
Index and a facial cues rating scale at two times, one month apart. The experimental
group also participated in an infant massage intervention taught by a Certified Infant
Massage Instructor of the International Association of Infant Massage. A repeated
measures MANOVA revealed infant massage decreased paternal stress. Qualitatively, the
fathers provided rich descriptions of their experience in the baby massage class which
provided useful insight into the efficacy of the intervention. Overall, the fathers enjoyed
the experience but did not necessarily see the direct benefit of the intervention on their
relationship. Recommendations for pre and postnatal education for fathers are made.
