Fathering at the Margins of Society

Abstract

This study aims to broaden researchers' understanding of fatherhood by focusing on an understudied population of young, urban, minority, crime-involved fathers. Using 115 qualitative life history interviews, the authors examine fatherhood expectations, role participation, and ideals. Study fathers described very similar ideals for being fathers (e.g., providing financial resources, caring, basic needs, spending time together, and being a role model) as have been reported by less disadvantaged men. Aspects of the father's life-course trajectory and ecological niche were important for understanding individual differences in fathering behaviors. Consistent with life-course principles, those fathers with fewer developmental assets were more likely to be uninvolved. Specifically, we found that being young, Puerto Rican, detached from the child's mother, low in human capital, and involved in crime were associated with being absent. The findings suggest that young fathers experiencing cumulative disadvantage face multiple challenges that inhibit their ability to reach their fatherhood expectations.