Table 2.

Synthesized finding 1: New fatherhood identity

Findings	Categories	Synthesized findings
What it means to be “male” [U] The perceived positive relationship between being male and the ability to father children [U] Feeling of development [U] The caring father might emerge as, in fact, the bigger bloke [C] Accomplishing an important goal in this life phase [C] Proving their ability as men [C]	Being a father, feeling more of a man	New fatherhood identity: Becoming a father gave men a new identity, which made them feel like they were fulfilling their role as “men”. They recognized that this new role came with changed priorities and responsibilities, which they welcomed; however, they often worried about being a “good father” and “getting it right”.
Maintaining health to meet the needs of forthcoming dependents [C] Feeling of responsibility [U] Symbolizing eternal love [C] Preparation for fatherhood [C] Expanded vision [U] Changes associated with the father's role [U] Adjusting priorities [C] Emotional changes experienced [C]	Changed priorities, responsibility and expanded vision
New fathers wish to father differently from their own fathers [U] Worry about being able to manage being both a good provider and a “hands on” father [U] Wanting to cherry pick the best bits from own childhood [C] Wanting to bring baby up in best way [C] Wanting to get things right [U] Worries about being a good enough dad [U] Expanded role of good fathers [C] Dealing with internal and external pressures [C] Good father and father involvement [C]	Being a good enough dad and getting it right

U, unequivocal; C, credible