Children are more likely to face the wrath of their fathers in case their dad is going through a phase of depression. A recent study has indicated the psychological effects of depression among men, which makes their behavior more irritable towards their children.

The study published in Pediatrics and done by researchers of University of Michigan Health system states that depressed fathers are four times more likely to smack their child in comparison to the happy and normal fathers. Moreover, the depressed fathers are less likely to read out to their children.

The earlier studies have only concentrated on effects of mother’s depression on parenting behavior but the new study has revealed the behavior pattern of fathers in depression which could have significant implications on child’s growth environment.

The researchers collected facts and figures from 1,746 fathers in 20 cities. The data revealed that nearly 7% are depressed fathers. Among depressed fathers, nearly 41% fathers admitted spanking their kid once in last month.

It was also found that it’s more probable for a child with a depressed mother to have depressed father. The other problems that depressed fathers may be facing are sleep problems, low energy levels and irritability. Unemployed fathers are also more likely to be depressed.

The children growth and health is connected to mental health and active participation of fathers in their development process, therefore, it’s important that similar kind of support be provided to fathers in their parenting role as provided to mothers.