Reshaping Fatherhood: Finding the Models

Abstract

One of the reasons that the “conduct” of fatherhood has been slow to change is lack of exposure to appropriate paternal role models. This research was designed to examine how fathers of young children (one child < 6 years of age) shaped fatherhood roles according to various models in their lives. Following the qualitative research principles of grounded theory and comparative analysis, three key themes emerged. First, there was a void with respect to identifiable and meaningful role models. Their own fathers were not seen as good role models. Second, these fathers tended not to model their behavior after a particular individual, but, rather, their models were fragmented as they selected particular behaviors to incorporate into their roles. A third theme to emerge was the emphasis that was placed by these men on providing a role model to their children, in the absence of role models in their own lives.