New fathers, mental health, and a spectrum of digital dis/engagement

Amidst ongoing focus on the difficulties many new mothers face in the period after having a baby, attention has recently been paid to the struggles new fathers might have to contend with, as well. For www.parenting.digital, Dr Paul Hodkinson and Dr Ranjana Das discuss a spectrum of digital engagement by new fathers in coping with mental health struggles, drawing on their new book. Digital media offer clear potential as outlets for fathers, particularly in the agentic possibilities they afford. Still, the role of digital media is varied both between different fathers and within the context of individual journeys. While some forms of engagement involve distraction or disconnection, others include different levels of information- or support-seeking.