The Inner Self: Identity, Well-being, and Personality Characteristics of Expectant and New Fathers

Abstract

In this chapter, the first section focuses on identity as a father and identity change ushered in by the transition to parenthood. Identities are internalized role expectations (Stryker, 1987) and self-meanings in a role (LaRossa & Reitzes, 1993). The second section of the chapter continues with the internal theme by examining aspects of well-being in relation to the timing of fatherhood. Both positive affective elements (e.g., comfort with closeness in relationships) and negative affective elements (e.g., depressive symptoms) are examined. In the final section of this chapter on the inner self, we examine which social and psychological clock indicators are associated with aspects of men’s personalities.