141. Young Fathers’ Perceptions and Experiences of Fatherhood and Healthcare

Abstract

Over 70 million men in America are fathers, with nearly 40% entering fatherhood during adolescence and young adulthood. Young fathers face particular challenges compared to older fathers due to less access to employment and financial stability, nonresidential status (living apart from their child,) as well as societal stereotypes about being immature and irresponsible. They may be less involved with their children than older fathers. A young father’s sense of responsibility for his children can be influenced by his own role expectation of fatherhood and self-image as a father. Previous studies exploring the conceptualization of fatherhood found that young fathers primarily perceive these roles to include financial provider and nurturer. Father child rearing practices can affect the health and well-being of both children and fathers. A better understanding of how young fathers perceive their roles in family and healthcare could help efforts to develop interventions and policies to support them. The purpose of this study is to explore young fathers’ perceptions of their roles in fatherhood and their own and their child’s healthcare experiences.