This paper reviews and synthesizes a broad range of research studies and theoretical essays related to the transition to fatherhood. This literature suggests that the transition to fatherhood can best be described as a set of normative developmental events that occur during the life course. In addition, while transformation into the role of father is a critical stage for individual development, the process takes place within the context of small social systems, such as dyads, nested within families or family-like environments. In order to understand fatherhood experiences, the review analyzes the fathers' relationship with his child, his child's mother, and the functioning of the family as a unitary social entity. Larger social networks, such as extended families and families of origin, affect the process of role change among new and expectant fathers; these networks are examined as well. Finally, the special case of early role transition to fatherhood among adolescents is a major topic reviewed in this paper. Implications for research and practice are discussed. (Contains 66 references.) (Author/KB)