Fathers of people with intellectual disability: A review of the literature

Abstract

The aim of this article is to review the literature related to fathers of people who have an intellectual disability (ID). Electronic databases and citation tracking were used to collate data using key terms such as fathers, adults with an ID, learning disability, mental handicap and developmental disability. Relevant articles were analysed and compared for commonality and difference. Eight themes emerged from the literature: response to diagnosis, varied response to ID, concern for the future, work, roles and relationships, impact of fathers upon child development, fathers and service providers, fathers’ needs and coping strategies. This review of the literature presents areas of similarity and divergence and highlights the lack of information that relates specifically to fathers of adults. There are clear messages to service providers to support the inclusion of fathers and the need for further research in this area is indicated.