Figuring out fatherhood

Paper 1 is a review which aimed to systemically identify and collate literature on the experiences of fathers accessing internet-based support. A total of 11 papers were reviewed. The review found four key themes which indicate that fathers experience support online in different ways: internet-based support experienced as a community; as a space to consider societal norms of gender; as a safe space to develop new narratives and challenge misconceptions; and as a place of learning. Reflectivity and ethical considerations were noted within the literature and should be held in mind when interpreting the findings. The results show a need for fathers to have access to safe communities to learn from each other’s experiences and continue developing discourses to share with their children.

Paper 2 is an empirical paper which uses interpretive phenomenological analysis (IPA) to explore young fathers’ experience of their developing their identity whilst transitioning from young person to parent. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with five participants who viewed themselves as having been young fathers. At the time of the interview, the participants ranged in age from 22-52 having had their first child between the ages of 20-24. Three themes were developed: “What do we do now?”; “Step up”. “Man up”, and “Change happens”. The findings indicate that young fathers go through a range of emotions and experiences as they develop their fatherhood identities. External factors have a large influence, and their identity is interpreted through multiple lenses. The research indicates that young fathers require more support from services with an emphasis on peer support and consideration of psychoeducation.

Paper 3 is an executive summary paper, written to be accessible to young fathers. It contains a summary of the empirical paper mainly focusing on the results and what they mean for young fathers. It can be distributed to those who work with young parents in the charity sector, health clinicians and the general public.