Engaging Fathers in Parent Training: A Qualitative Study

Numerous studies have described fathers’ low participation in child psychotherapy. Few studies, however, have explored the clinical challenges involved in the process of engaging fathers effectively. The present study sought to address this gap by assessing the clinical process that takes place when the father joins therapy. Treatment supporters in a counseling program for child behavior problems were interviewed about clinical cases involving attempts to engage fathers. Qualitative analysis of the interviews revealed three main themes: The father’s initial suspiciousness, the father’s prior involvement at home, and the mother’s perception of the father’s help. Based on study results, a new model for fathers’ engagement is proposed.