Redefining fatherhood : perceptions of young fathers who have sole and joint custody

Abstract

This study examines the roles, experiences, and practices of young fathers aged 18 to 35 in Malta who have sole or joint custody of their children, while also investigating the resources and support systems available to them and the challenges they encounter on their fatherhood journey. Purposive sampling was used to recruit information-rich participants, resulting in four fathers who provided informed consent and participated in in-depth interviews. This study employs a qualitative approach, using single-session interviews as the primary data collection method, with data subsequently analysed through reflexive thematic analysis. The study’s key findings illuminate how these fathers navigate and reconstruct traditional notions of fatherhood within the local context. Drawing on participants’ narratives and reflexive thematic analysis, four overarching themes were identified: support and nurture within the community, evolution of legal systems, holistic personal development, and resilience through sustainability. The discussion explores the conditions and variations of single fatherhood through intersectionality theory, considering the multiple identities they hold. It also examines divergent pathways to parenthood, the differences between raising one child versus multiple children, gender role expectations, the stigma faced by LGBTQ+ fathers, and potential gender biases within the current legal system. Furthermore, this study offers insight into the lived experiences of young single fathers, highlighting the challenges they face, the limited support they are offered and the resilience they demonstrate. It underscores the importance of familial and communal assistance as essential resources for managing caregiving duties and addressing the intricacies of solo fatherhood.