Non-custodial parenting: the father-child relationship

Abstract

This research explores the relationship between 13 non-custodial fathers and their children, from the fathers' perspective. Semi-structured interviews were used to gather details of the process and content of access, and the fathers' experiences of parenting. Fathers' descriptions of access arrangements show wide variety in type and detail, and the content of access can be seen to be responsive to the intentions of fathers and to variation in the number and age of their children. While many fathers take full responsibility for their children while they are in their care, it was found that generally, fathers are only marginally involved in their children's lives outside 'the home'. The relationship between parents emerged as a significant issue for fathers in this research. It was found that, despite lingering negative feelings, many parents are able to co-operate for the well being of their children. The recent child support legislation was shown to have significance for the relationship under examination, creating as it does an environment of uncertainty. The existence of a negotiated custody and access agreement appears to augur well for a satisfactory father-child relationship. Without a suitable agreement, many fathers perceive themselves as being in a vulnerable position with regard to their involvement in their children's lives. Although relationships between fathers and their children have been shown to operate within general and particular contexts, this research has revealed what we have always known. The essence of a relationship is always determined at the personal level.