A qualitative exploration of the intergenerational transmission on fathers' discipline methods and involvement in child rearing

Abstract

Fathering behaviours such as discipline methods and involvement play a significant role in children’s development. One way in which men learn to father is through intergenerational transmission. The majority of studies regarding intergenerational transmission have focused primarily on low-income fathers who experienced harsh discipline methods or neglect as a child. This study aimed to fill a gap by exploring intergenerational transmission among participants who have varying socio-economic backgrounds and had relatively positive fathering experiences. This study was guided by the research question, “how has the transmission of fathering behaviour between generations influenced fathers’ discipline methods and involvement in child-rearing?” Implementing a qualitative approach, semi-structured interviews were conducted with ten fathers who were recruited through convenience sampling. Thematic analysis of the interview data resulted in three major themes: 1) contemporary and traditional fathering behaviours and involvement, 2) discipline methods and 3) changes during fatherhood. The findings indicated an intergenerational change toward more emotive, communicative and contemporary fathering involvement and a move toward constructive discipline methods. The findings also highlighted an unstudied area of intergenerational research, namely, the intergenerational influence on the changes in relationship between a father and their child as the child grows into adulthood. This study has implications for improving familial well-being. For example, by fostering necessary discourse about the generational influences that contribute to fathering behaviour and its subsequent effects on child development between generations.