Promoting Fathers' Engagement With Children: Preventive Interventions for Low‐Income Families

Abstract

Few programs to enhance fathers' engagement with children have been systematically evaluated, especially for low-income minority populations. In this study, 289 couples from primarily low-income Mexican American and European American families were randomly assigned to one of three conditions and followed for 18 months: 16-week groups for fathers, 16-week groups for couples, or a 1-time informational meeting. Compared with families in the low-dose comparison condition, intervention families showed positive effects on fathers' engagement with their children, couple relationship quality, and children's problem behaviors.

Engaging dads: Enhancing support for fathers through parenting programmes

“…There is an obvious need for the organisation's environment to be welcoming, comfortable and supportive; however, many are welcoming and supportive of women, but leave fathers feeling out of place (Berlyn et al, 2008;Torr, 2003). Study findings show that displays of positive and diverse images of fathers, information targeted at fathers and the presence of other men in the organisation can help mitigate fathers' feelings of alienation (Berlyn et al, 2008;Cowan, Cowan, Pruett, Pruett, & Wong, 2009;Fletcher, 2010;McBride et al, 2008;O'Brien, 2004;Torr, 2003). Attention to colour schemes can promote a more father-friendly environment and displaying notices about organisational processes, rather than assuming fathers already know, can reduce feelings of discomfort (Fletcher, 2010).…”

Do Sexist Mothers Change More Diapers? Ambivalent Sexism, Maternal Gatekeeping, and the Division of Childcare

“…Many intervention programs have therefore been developed to promote paternal involvement and positive family outcomes (e.g., Cowan et al 2009;Panter-Brick et al 2014;Rienks et al 2011). Some of these programs focus specifically on the co-parenting relationship and are designed to reduce maternal gatekeeping and enhance collaboration between parents (McHale and Carter 2012; Pruett et al 2017).…”

Programa P Bolivia: Un manual para la paternidad activa

“…Esto se refleja en la atención exclusiva a las mujeres y en la ausencia de participación paterna, tanto en la mayoría de los servicios de salud materna e infantil, como en programas de competencias parentales (Smith et al, 2012). Pocos programas de fortalecimiento de competencias parentales, que incluyen la prevención del maltrato infantil, incluyen a los padres hombres (Panter-Brick et al 2014;Cowan 2009). …”