Fathers’ experiences of becoming and being a father of twins in a multiple-birth family
Year: 2024
Type: article
Abstract: Aim To describe the lived experiences of fathers of twins and to contribute to the understanding of twin fatherhood and the need for support. A further aim was to increase knowledge of multiple-birth parenthood and situations among health and social care professionals. Design Qualitative and a hermeneutic phenomenological approach. Methods The data comprised the diaries and notes of fathers of twins and in-depth interviews. Results The phenomenon of being a father of twins consist of four themes: “Fatherhood of twins grows gradually,” “Strengthening of twin fatherhood by being present and involved,” “Fathers develop their relationship with each and both of the twins” and “Making space for twin fatherhood.” This article deals with the first two themes. Fatherhood of twins gradually develops during pregnancy and after the births through being actively present with the twins. It involves responsibility, protection, interaction, and the creation of a bond with each child. Getting to know the children better as individuals also means spending time with each child separately. Fathers sought more support and information from midwives and nurses to help them as fathers of twins. There is a need for multidisciplinary collaboration and more research on this topic, such as intervention and impact studies.
Source: Women and Children Nursing
Author: Kristiina Heinonen
Institution: University of Eastern Finland
Language: English
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4405236393