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Journal Article The authors use an ecological framework and grounded theoretical analysis to explore the circumstances in which working-class and low-income custodial African American fathers gain custody of their children; their transition from part-time to full-time parents; and the role of support networks in enhancing or inhibiting these men's parenting. Twenty-four men from an impoverished Midwestern urban area participated in the study. The findings suggest that these men, and perhaps others sharing their demographic profiles, generally become parents by default and are often reluctant to take on a…
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Journal Article To investigate fathers' involvement with their children using an ecological model, multiple respondents, and a comprehensive definition of fathers' involvement. The study's primary objectives were: (a) to describe the characteristics of fathers whose infants are born to low-income, urban, African-American adolescent mothers; (b) to describe the ways in which fathers are involved with their children; and (c) to identify factors associated with fathers' involvement. (Author abstract)
Data from 13 national surveys were compiled for this report about parental attitudes and behaviors, family formation, and fertility. Indicators address beliefs about the importance of becoming a parent and the value of children, attitudes toward spanking, conflict resolution, warmth and conflict between parents and children, time spent with children, and participation in school activities. Child custody arrangements, marriage and divorce, cohabitation, and parental sexual history also are examined. The analysis can be used to support policy and practice decisions about mothers and fathers.…
