"Welcome to the World.  I'm Your Dad."
Sociologist Studies Men and Childbirth

February 2000  -  Moving new fathers from the waiting room into the delivery room has been a positive experience for men says Richard Reed, associate professor of sociology.  But after years of having others define their roles during labor and delivery, new dads are beginning to decide for themselves what they should do during childbirth. "Birth is important to men," says Reed, who after the birth of his first child began researching men and childbirth.  He explains that childbirth has helped men in their relationships with both mother and child.  The experience has also helped men as they take on the mantle of fatherhood. Still, Reed says that the idea of men being involved is relatively new.  "In just one generation, we now have 80-90% of men participating in the childbirth process."  Most of the fathers were told what to do by doctors, nurses and midwives, who may have limited the role of men during labor and delivery.  Reed believes as more men talk to each other about their personal experiences, they will soon decide for themselves how they can take even more of an active role during the miracle of birth. To speak to Reed about men's roles during childbirth, contact Russell Guerrero at (210) 999-8406 or by e-mail at rguerrer@trinity.edu.

Back to the Tip Sheets Page Back to the What's New Page Back to the Trinity Home Page

Last updated on June 7, 2000 by the Office of Public Relations