Depressive disorder is common, and frequently affects parents. Maternal postnatal depression in

particular has been linked to later behavioural, emotional and cognitive problems in children.

However, the impact of paternal depression in the early months of an infants life on their subsequent

development has been largely overlooked. This research programme aims to illuminate this gap.

Objectives

1. To examine the influence of paternal depression in the postnatal period on father-child interaction

and the child's behavioural, emotional and cognitive development.

2. To examine the potential processes by which any adverse effects arise.

Design and methods.

The principal focus of the research will be a detailed longitudinal cohort study. This will comprise

two groups of fathers and their young infants; one a group of fathers with depression, and one

without depression. There will be three assessment points, at which detailed observational

measures of father-child interaction and other assessments of family functioning will be undertaken.

The child's behavioural, emotional and cognitive development will also be assessed.

I also plan to extend my analysis of data from the large ALSPAC population cohort study to examine

the relationship between paternal depression in the postnatal period and children's emotional and

behavioural problems up to school age.