Support as described by fathers with intellectual disabilities

Abstract

Background Many fathers with intellectual disabilities experience some difficulties in fulfilling their parenting role due external factors. The quality of their parenting depends on various factors, including the availability and adequacy of support. The aim of this study was to understand the lived experiences associated with social support of fathers with intellectual disabilities. Method The organisation of the research and data analysis were carried out in accordance with Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 20 fathers with intellectual disabilities. Results In the analysis, three interrelated themes emerged: Discrepancies between needs and provision of support; Discriminatory practices and feeling (dis)empowered; and Recognition of support. Conclusions Fathers described negative aspects of their experiences that were not conducive to strengthening paternal competences and led to a sense of loneliness. Positive aspects also emerged, indicating that fathers were determined to fulfil their role despite the lack of adequate support for their needs.

Fathers with intellectual disabilities require support to successfully navigate fatherhood

“…This study explored the lived experiences of social support of 20 Polish fathers with intellectual disabilities 1. Twenty fathers with mild-to-moderate intellectual disabilities aged 21–54 participated in qualitative semistructured interviews.…”

“…Becoming a father is a fundamental right of all men irrespective of an intellectual disability 2. Ćwirynkało and Parchomiuk1 explored social supports needs through the lens of 20 Polish fathers with intellectual disabilities. These findings support the evidence that becoming a father irrespective of a disability can be challenging and the economic, social and support needs of fathers increases, consistent with wider research 3 4.…”