Dads Tuning in to Kids: Acceptability and appropriateness in a real-world dissemination trial

Fathers are underrepresented in parenting programs and experience inequitable access to parenting support. Dads Tuning in to Kids (TIK) is an evidence-based parenting program that has been designed to target the needs of fathers. While Dads TIK has been shown to be efficacious in research settings it is important to establish how the program works and is accepted when delivered by facilitators from different services to socio-culturally diverse fathers. This study was part of real-world dissemination trial. A concurrent nested mixed-method approach was used to examine facilitators (n = 33) and fathers’ (n = 157) perceptions of the acceptability and the appropriateness of the program. Quantitative data were analysed descriptively, while content analysis was used with the qualitative data. Integration of quantitative and qualitative data indicated that facilitators and fathers felt positively about the program, with results suggesting program concepts, materials and activities were suitable. Fathers described experiencing ‘lightbulb moments’ and profound impacts on their parenting, emotional awareness, wellbeing, and personal relationships. Fathers reported the program was helpful, they felt more confident as parents, and they regularly used program strategies. Having a program for fathers only provided them with a dedicated space where they could be vulnerable and share their experiences of fatherhood, form peer support networks, and redefine their perceptions of their role as parents. The Dads TIK program was acceptable among socio-culturally diverse fathers as a ‘safe’ space to engage in emotion-focused discussions.