What support is available for teenage dads and why does it matter? In this episode of The Aspiring Psychologist Podcast, Dr Marianne Trent speaks with assistant psychologist Allie, who works on a groundbreaking pilot project in Bristol supporting young fathers under 25. They explore the challenges teen dads face, from being excluded by perinatal services to navigating stigma, co-parenting, and lack of role models. You'll hear how psychology-led support, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), is helping teenage dads feel more confident, connected, and involved in their children’s lives. Whether you’re a psychologist, student, parent, or someone working with young men, this episode is full of practical advice and insights into supporting young fathers’ mental health and parenting journey.

#TeenDads #YoungFathers #PerinatalMentalHealth #teenpregnancy

⏱️ Timestamps:

• 00:00 – Why teen dads need more support
• 02:19 – Meet Allie and the Family Nurse Partnership pilot
• 07:17 – Barriers to engagement and risk-assessed identities
• 10:06 – Wanting the baby vs unwanted pregnancy myths
• 14:07 – Role models and rethinking discipline
• 17:42 – The value of therapeutic space for young men
• 20:35 – The importance of mindful transitions into parenthood
• 23:15 – Young dads and the language gap in perinatal services
• 25:04 – Fears around holding the baby and asking for help
• 29:56 – Legal complexities and parental responsibility
• 33:01 – Therapeutic approach: motivational interviewing & ACT
• 38:30 – Advice for teenage dads (and those supporting them)
• 45:05 – Being a “good enough” parent at any age
• 50:21 – The emotional impact of sleep deprivation

Links:

📲 To learn more about the family nurse partnership head to: https://sirona-cic.org.uk/children-services/services/family-nurse-partnership/

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