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Paternal, maternal depression may influence toddler anxiety, behavior

Data suggest both maternal and paternal depression plays a role in a child’s behavior, according to research published in Couple and Family Psychology: Research and Practice.

“Father’s emotions affect their children,” Sheehan Fisher, PhD, instructor in psychiatry and behavioral sciences at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine and psychologist at Northwestern Memorial Hospital, said in a press release. “New fathers should be screened and treated for postpartum depression, just as we do for mothers.”

The researchers included a sample of 199 couples, measured for both postpartum and toddlerhood parental depression; toddlerhood assessments of parental conflict; and toddlerhood assessments of child internalizing and externalizing behaviors.

They found that interpartner ratings for each measure had small to moderate correlations (P < .01 for all).

In addition, higher levels of maternal and paternal depression at the toddlerhood assessment were associated with a greater level of toddler internalizing and externalizing behaviors, they wrote.

“Early intervention for both mothers and fathers is the key,” Sheehan said in the release. “If we can catch parents with depression earlier and treat them, then there won't be a continuation of symptoms, and, maybe even as importantly, their child won’t be affected by a parent with depression.” – by Samantha Costa

Disclosure: The researchers report no relevant financial disclosures.