Psychosocial experiences of adolescents in single-father families adolescent and parent perspectives in the Adentan Municipality

Abstract

Single father parenting is becoming increasingly prevalent in contemporary society, with fathers assuming primary caregiving responsibilities for their children. This study explores the psychosocial experiences of adolescents in single father families: adolescent and parent perspectives. A case of the Adentan Municipality, Ghana. Through qualitative interviews and observations, data was gathered from the adolescent children living with and parented by single fathers to understand their experiences, and some single father parents to glean the perceptions of parenting, family dynamics, family relationships, social support, social engagement, and adolescent behavior. The data was with the sample size of 4 parents and 20 adolescent participants after saturation. A thematic analysis was done with the data gathered to generate the findings. The finding discovered both positive and negative experiences of single father parenting to the adolescent’s development. It revealed that single fathers demonstrated remarkable resilience and dedication in assuming caregiving roles traditionally associated with mothers, fostering strong emotional bonds and supportive relationships with their adolescent children. Some adolescents of single fathers exhibited positive behavioral outcomes. However, challenges such as financial strain, and lack of social support were identified as barriers to effective single father parenting and adolescent well-being. Implications of the study underscore the importance of recognizing and supporting single father families in promoting positive adolescent development. Policy initiatives and community interventions should aim to destigmatize single fatherhood, enhance access to resources and support services, and provide tailored interventions to address the unique needs of single fathers and their adolescent children in the Adentan Municipality and similar contexts.