Dads are often seen as strong and steady. But many struggle with depression—and new research shows it can have long-lasting effects on their children’s behavior and social skills.
A study by Rutgers Health found that kids whose dads had depression at age five were more likely to have behavioral issues by age nine.
Published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine, the study shows that children exposed to paternal depression are more likely to show anger, restlessness, and low self-esteem in school.
Researchers say depression isn’t just a mom issue. About 8% to 13% of fathers in the U.S. face depression during their child’s early years. The rate jumps to 50% if the mother is also depressed.
The study used data from a national survey that followed families in 20 U.S. cities. It looked at fathers’ mental health when their children were five, and at teacher reports on the children’s behavior at age nine.
Of the 1,422 dads studied, most lived with their kids at least half the time. Even after accounting for family income and mothers’ mental health, a clear link remained between depressed dads and child behavior problems.
Kids of depressed fathers were more likely to be defiant, uncooperative, and have trouble with social skills.
Lead researcher Kristine Schmitz said depressed dads may find it harder to parent or show emotional support. Depression can also add stress or conflict at home, affecting the whole family.
This is the first large U.S. study to show a strong connection between dads’ mental health and how kids behave in school.
Schmitz says early support for dads with depression could help children thrive. Pediatricians should talk to fathers too, not just mothers, about mental health.
Depression is treatable, she added. And when parents ask for help, they teach their children a powerful life lesson.
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