Unveiling Sociocultural Determinants of Paternal Postpartum Depression in a Tertiary Care Setting of Islamabad: A Qualitative Approach

Abstract

Objective: Postpartum depression in fathers has gained attention as a critical mental health concern; however,
limited research exists on its sociocultural determinants, especially in Pakistan. This study aimed to explore the
sociocultural factors that contribute negatively to postpartum depression in Pakistani fathers by highlighting
the culture-specific risk factors and addressing gaps in the literature.
Study Design: This qualitative study investigated the sociocultural factors determining postpartum depression
in fathers within the Pakistani context.
Place and Duration of Study: The study was carried out at the Department of Clinical Psychology, Shifa Tameere-Millat University, Islamabad, Pakistan from March 2022 to February 2023.
Methods: Using convenience sampling, semi-structured, in-depth interviews were conducted with 15 fathers
who experience the mood related symptoms of postpartum depression after the child birth. Thematic analysis,
as outlined by Braun and Clarke (2006), was employed to identify recurring patterns and themes.
Results: The findings revealed themes such as societal expectations of fatherhood (e.g, pressure to be the sole
provider), rigid gender norms (discouraging emotional expression), limited social support, stigmatization of
paternal mental health, cultural stigma surrounding mental health, preventing help-seeking, challenges in
marital relationships, and financial stress, patriarchal responsibilities. These interconnected factors created a
cyclical burden and significantly affect the mental health of fathers, exacerbating the postpartum phase
depression.
Conclusion: The study underscores the need for culturally adapted interventions, such as community-based
psychoeducation programs targeting stigma reduction and inclusive paternal support networks. To support
paternal mental health in low-resource settings, future research should quantify these determinants. The
findings advocate for community-based initiatives aimed at reducing stigma and establishing paternal support
networks. Policymakers should prioritize father-inclusive mental health programs, while future research must
quantify these determinants to inform scalable solutions in low-resource settings.

How to cite this: Fatima M, Ayub N, Rafiq N. Unveiling Sociocultural Determinants of Paternal Postpartum Depression in a Tertiary Care Setting of Islamabad: A Qualitative Approach. Life and Science. 2025; 6(2): 255-260. doi: http://doi.org/10.37185/LnS.1.1.646