Low-Income African American Fathers' Perceptions and Experiences in a Fatherhood Support Program

We describe the experiences and perceptions of low-income African American fathers enrolled in a fatherhood support program delivered by mentor fathers. Data were collected through focus groups. Client fathers' key motivations for enrolling in the program were improving parenting skills through mentor and peer support. Satisfaction with provider-client interaction (father-to-father) was key, highlighting the important aspect of mentoring for continued program participation. Key program outcomes were improved child and co-parenting relationships. Client fathers had a specific set of psychosocial issues, which they needed addressed. More information is needed to advance the conceptualization of factors associated with low-income African American fathers' lives and their co-parenting roles.