Abortion and the man. Psychological and psychopathological manifestations in the face of lost fatherhood

: Only recently has any study evaluated the psychological and psychopathological reactions of men whose partners have chosen to have an abortion. Recent studies have shown that fatherhood causes deep personal and social changes and conflicts. It is therefore natural that an interruption of this process, such as through abortion, can inspire feelings of being partially "killed", thus bringing back childhood anxieties and feelings of castration. One study on women who had abortions showed that only 1/6 were accompanied by their partners, and that for those who face abortion as a couple, the future did not seem to hold negative consequences. A study of a number of young men emphasized the frustration of 2 desires: that of becoming a father and, consequently, of becoming a man. Another study of 50 childless young men indicated that the "lack of fatherhood" after the 1st abortion was the origin of frustration and pain that, in some cases, drove unmarried couples to discontinue their relationship. In a 4th study, of 52 women who went to an abortion clinic, 29 were accompanied by their partners. 20 partners agreed to be interviewed. Although none were asked the reason for the abortion, each explained the motivation for it. The observations show "persecution anxieties", especially with regard to the partner, depression anxieties and psychosomatic symptoms. Depression and behavioral disorders, although rarer, may also manifest themselves. The study suggests a comparison between reactions and feelings of potential fatherhood and fatherhood lost.