What does decreased testosterone in fathers predict at 2 and 9 months postpartum?

Decreased testosterone levels in fathers after the birth of a child have been associated with an increased likelihood of experiencing depression at 2 and 9 months postpartum. Studies suggest that lower testosterone may facilitate caregiving behaviors and emotional bonding, which can also make fathers more responsive to their infants' needs. However, this shift in hormonal levels may also reflect a vulnerability to mental health issues such as depression. This association highlights the complex interplay between biology and mental health, particularly in the postpartum period when fathers might face new challenges and stressors that could contribute to depressive symptoms.

In contrast, the other options—while they may suggest potential outcomes associated with paternal involvement or parenting—do not directly relate to the established findings regarding testosterone levels and mental health. For example, while decreased testosterone might promote more nurturing behaviors, the direct relationship to positive parenting or enhanced involvement is not as clearly supported by evidence as the link to increased likelihood of depression.