Building a theory of change to guide fatherhood programming to prevent family violence: a comparison of two programs

Abstract

Background

Fatherhood programs have increasingly been recognized as a promising approach to prevent violence against women and children (VAWC), yet there remains limited synthesis across programs to clarify the core components that drive change. Most existing studies focus on individual program evaluations. Identifying shared principles or pathways can inform broader implementation and scale. To address this gap, this analysis identified program elements that effectively engage fathers to reduce VAWC by conducting a case analysis of two evidence-based fatherhood programs, Bandebereho and REAL (Responsible, Engaged, and Loving) Fathers, and presenting a joint Theory of Change (TOC).

Methods

Programs were identified through a rapid review of evidence on fatherhood violence prevention programs and selected for their engagement of fathers, published evaluations with positive effects in reducing violence against women and children, adaptation and scale-up in a low resource setting, and having at least one available representative. Authors met regularly over 18-months conducting a desk review of program documentation, building understanding on program strategies and evidence, discussing similarities and differences between the programs, and identifying key elements. Analysis was collated in an excel matrix and utilized to create a pictorial TOC which was reviewed and validated by researchers and implementers from each program.

Results

The TOC highlights program principles, key stakeholders, training, program components, change catalysts, and intermediate outcomes on the pathway to impact. Despite being developed in unique contexts by different teams, programs displayed strikingly similar components and pathways of change leading to measured outcomes demonstrating positive impacts on prevention of violence against women and children.

Conclusions

This TOC reflects evidence-based insights into the core components and pathways through which fatherhood programs may reduce violence against women and children. Although developed from two rigorously evaluated programs, the shared elements identified can serve as a foundation for future research and program development. This initial framework can help guide intervention design, implementation, monitoring and evaluation to promote effectiveness and sustainability in future violence prevention initiatives that engage fathers. Further testing and validation across diverse contexts are needed to assess the theories broader relevance.