Considering Contextual Influences on Fatherhood Program Participants’ Experiences

The current study assessed multiple changes over 1 year for fatherhood program participants and explored variations in challenges at program start, retention, and improvements in outcomes based on geographic setting, race, and sequencing of services. In a sample of 630 racially diverse fathers, we found enhanced economic vulnerability of urban fathers and Black/other minority fathers, and greater individual and work-related challenges for White fathers at program start. Results from growth modeling indicated fathers reported sustained growth over 1 year in nearly all measures assessed including relationship skills and functioning, hope for ensuring a positive future, father involvement and parent-child relationship quality, child academic adjustment, and commitments and ability to meet financial obligations. Evidence of enhanced benefit of programs in multiple areas over time for rural and White participants, compared with Black/other minority and urban fathers is presented. Results also indicate receiving case management first enhances fathers’ attendance and retention in program classes.