O PAPEL DO PAI NO CUIDADO INFANTIL E SUAS IMPLICAÇÕES: REVISÃO INTEGRATIVA

Abstract

Contemporary family dynamics require a re-evaluation of parental roles, highlighting the need for the father’s active engagement in childcare and its impact on infant development and family health. Objective: To summarize scientific evidence regarding the role of fatherhood in strengthening the father-child bond, identifying the main benefits, challenges, and strategies that facilitate or hinder paternal participation. Population and Methods: This was an integrative literature review guided by the question: “What is the importance of paternal participation in maintaining child health?” The search was conducted in January 2025 in the BVS, Embase, Web of Science, and PubMed databases, using the descriptors “child care” and “fatherhood.” Full-text articles available online were included, with no time restriction (except in BVS, limited to 10 years), while reviews, theses, and articles in foreign languages were excluded. The selection process was performed using the Rayyan platform and the PRISMA flowchart. Results: Findings from 28 studies demonstrated that active paternal involvement during the neonatal period is associated with significant benefits, such as higher rates of exclusive breastfeeding and reduced maternal stress and postpartum depression. However, cultural and structural barriers—such as the social perception of childcare as a female task and the organization of health services (e.g., rooming-in practices)—often limit paternal protagonism. Conclusion: Paternal involvement is crucial for the health of the mother-infant dyad and the child’s overall development. Prenatal and postpartum interventions are essential to deconstruct the father’s role as merely a provider and to integrate him as a co-responsible caregiver.