Abstract

Starting from an identity theoretic frame, this study focuses on paternal fetal bonding. The innovative aspect of this study lies in the attention for the perception of fathers-to-be of their wives as gatekeeper. A sample of 187 fathers-to-be, recruited in four hospitals in Ghent, is used. A multivariate linear regression analysis demonstrates that there is no difference in emotional attachment with the fetus whether fathers-to-be think of their father identity as their most important identity, or if they consider their work or partner identity as such. However, the degree in which a father-to-be sees himself as caregiver does have an influence on his emotional attachment with the fetus and so does the father’s perception of his partner’s ideas. Promoting the caregiver content and making mothers-to-be aware of the importance of their partner’s perception of their maternal gatekeeping behavior, seem good strategies to promote paternal fetal bonding.

How to Cite:

Van Gorp, L., (2012) “Een survey onderzoek naar vaderlijke verbondenheid met de foetus: Wat met een mans perceptie van zijn vrouw als poortwachter?”, Tijdschrift voor Sociologie 33(2), 156–178. doi: https://doi.org/10.21825/sociologos.86799