Craig Garfield
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About Craig
Dr. Garfield's research focuses on child health within the context of the family, with particular emphasis on the social determinants of health, the role of fathers, and the ability of technology to support parenting. In 2020 he became the founder and director of the Family and Child Health Innovations Program (FCHIP), which focuses on how to support families in all their diversity and is buoyed by the motto: “Children thrive when families thrive”. Career highlights include authoring all three of the AAP’s statements on Fathers and Pediatrics, collaboration with the CDC to create the first-ever public health surveillance system for fathers, called PRAMS for Dads, and contributing to the scientific evidence of the “dad bod.” He is also the Director of Research for the Division of Hospital Medicine.
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Publications
Examines the impact of fatherhood on men's cardiovascular health and mortality. Findings show that men who became fathers at younger ages tended to have poorer cardiovascular health compared to those who became fathers later in life, and Black fathers had lower age-adjusted mortality rates compared to Black nonfathers. Emphasizes the importance of considering fatherhood as a social determinant of health, particularly for men of color.
Explores the dual role of fathers in perinatal mental health, both as supportive partners to mothers and as vulnerable individuals susceptible to perinatal mood and anxiety disorders themselves. Reviews evidence highlighting fathers' influence on maternal mental health, the prevalence and impacts of paternal perinatal mental health issues on families, and approaches to screening and treatment. Provides recommendations for inclusive strategies at the local, state, and national levels to enhance mental health outcomes for fathers, mothers, and infants.