A multidimensional measure of father involvement following parental separation

Abstract

AbstractObjectiveThe aim of this study is to partially validate the Father's Relative Involvement Postseparation scale (FRIPS).BackgroundSeparated fathers have time and accessibility constraints to their children. To date, models and measures used to study separated fathers' parental involvement have often focused on the amount of time they spend with their child, not considering how they are involved. Pleck's (2010) model of father involvement and the “Who does what” measure type may be relevant in this regard.MethodThis study is based on a representative sample of 656 fathers living in Quebec, Canada, who separated between 2016 and 2018 and who have at least one child under 14 years of age.ResultsConfirmatory factor analysis showed that a second‐order model, including positive involvement activities, indirect care, and decision‐making factors, fits the data well. Convergent and divergent validity is demonstrated with custody time, father–child relationship quality and the father's perceived parental competence. Multigroup analysis showed that the FRIPS scale can be used with confidence regardless of the child's gender and age.ConclusionThe FRIPS is valid for assessing separated fathers' involvement.ImplicationsThis measure can be used to assess separated fathers' involvement, inclusive of nonresident, shared, and sole custody fathers.