Online Fathering: The Experience of First-Time Fatherhood in Combat-Deployed Troops

Deployed Service members often miss important life events, including the birth of their first child. This study interviewed 17 male Service member whose first child was born during their most recent combat deployment. Each participant was asked an open-ended question about their experience of becoming a first-time father during deployment. Results revealed that these fathers experienced fear and anxiety due to the disruption of their protector and provider role, but also highlighted the importance of communication with their spouses.