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Limited research exists on effective processes for implementing community-based fatherhood programs. Applying an implementation research framework, we interviewed team members of a fatherhood program during initial implementation. Four key factors emerged: (1) development and execution of capacity-building processes, (2) effective communication, (3) program factors, and (4) organizational culture and context. This study may inform future program planning and implementation by centering the shared and distinct perspectives of program leadership, organizational administrators, and frontline providers implementing community-based fatherhood programs.
Acknowledgements: The production of this manuscript was supported by Grant 90Z]0047-0200 from АСЕ Its content is the sole responsibility of the authors and do not necessarily represent the official views of АСЕ
Reh demonstrates significant impacts fathers have on their children and families. Children of involved fathers may perform better academically, demonstrate pro-social behaviors, and experience fewer social-emotional problems (Cabrera et al., 2017; Yoder et al., 2016). Paramount to these positive outcomes is the quality of fathers' relationships with partners, children's mothers, and other coparents (Coley & Hernandez, 2006; Osborne & Ankrum, 2015). Low fatherchild engagement is associated with interparental conflict (Coley & Hernandez, 2006), and positive child outcomes are associated with strong coparenting relationships (Carlson et al., 2008). In addition to the academic, social, and relational benefits, involved fathers contribute critical financial resources vital to mitigating the adverse effects of poverty on children (Magnuson & Votrubal-Drzal, 2009; Reardon, 2011).
Existing Research of Fatherhood Programs
Considering the unique implications of father involvement on children's health and well-being (Adamsons & Johnson, 2013; McWayne et al., 2013; Robin Dion et al., 2015), many researchers have identified a need to evaluate and expand the evidence on fatherhood programs (Anderson et al. 2002; Kim & Jang, 2018). Collectively, past studies on fatherhood programs showed positive outcomes related to father involvement and increased knowledge about parenting and positive attitudes toward fatherhood. (Hobler, 2001; Nievar et al., 2020; Robbers, 2005; Wilson et al., 2019). In a meta-analysis, Holmes and colleagues (2020) found evidence for the effectiveness of fatherhood programs targeting fathers who had low income, were unmarried, and were nonresidential. Specifically, their analysis demonstrated small but statistically significant impacts on three outcomes related to parenting, coparenting, and involvement. The strongest influence associated with fatherhood programs was on improving coparenting behaviors (Holmes et...