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Impact of Relationship Breakdown, Including Abuse and Negotiation of Co-Parenting Arrangements, on Fathers’ Mental Health, Help-Seeking, and Coping

Author

Listed:
  • Benjamin Hine

    (School of Human and Social Sciences, University of West London, London W5 5RF, UK)

  • Eilish Mairi Roy

    (National Crime Agency, London SE11 5EF, UK)

  • Ching-Yu Huang

    (Cambridge Alliance of Legal Psychology, London N14 5BP, UK)

  • Elizabeth Bates

    (Institute of Health, University of Cumbria, Carlisle CA1 2HH, UK)

Abstract

Background: This study explores the impact of family breakdown, separation, post-separation abuse, and negotiating of co-parenting arrangements on fathers’ physical and mental health, as well as their coping mechanisms and experiences of support, both informal and formal. Methods: Using data from a survey of 141 fathers and interviews with 30 participants, we examined the impact of family breakdown on fathers and their children and how they coped and were supported. The data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis to identify key themes. Results: Findings highlighted four primary themes: the impact on fathers, the impact on children, fathers’ strategies for coping, and fathers’ experience of formal and informal support. Conclusions: The results indicate that fathers need greater support mechanisms post-separation, in ways that specifically appreciate their unique experiences as men and fathers.

Suggested Citation

  • Benjamin Hine & Eilish Mairi Roy & Ching-Yu Huang & Elizabeth Bates, 2025. "Impact of Relationship Breakdown, Including Abuse and Negotiation of Co-Parenting Arrangements, on Fathers’ Mental Health, Help-Seeking, and Coping," Social Sciences, MDPI, vol. 14(4), pages 1-24, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jscscx:v:14:y:2025:i:4:p:232-:d:1629645
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Ohrnberger, Julius & Fichera, Eleonora & Sutton, Matt, 2017. "The relationship between physical and mental health: A mediation analysis," Social Science & Medicine, Elsevier, vol. 195(C), pages 42-49.
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