Serving young fathers in home visiting programs: Highlights from a research study

This brief summarizes findings from a qualitative research study that explored the strategies five home visiting programs use to engage fathers and the fathers’ experiences with the programs. Interviews with program staff and clients revealed that young fathers’ motivations to participate are similar to those of older and experienced fathers, and that they benefit similarly from the program. However, young fathers present unique challenges, including relationship instability, family resistance, logistics, and developmental immaturity. The lessons programs shared may help other programs that serve low-income families in their efforts to engage young fathers. (author abstract)