Participatory research with fathers: a conceptual model

This paper examines the challenges and potential of participatory research (PR) with fathers in child welfare contexts. It addresses theoretical and practical issues in engaging fathers, considering complex power dynamics stemming from their dual status as members of marginalized groups and as men in a patriarchal society. The paper explores how these dynamics affect research group composition and organizational environments, alongside father-specific recruitment and participation challenges. A preliminary six-factor model for PR with fathers is proposed, aiming to provide a foundation for PR that embraces fathers as active researchers, foster critical consciousness, and promote collaborative social action. The model emphasizes: inclusion, advantage/disadvantage interaction, masculinities and power, engagement as fathers, family contexts recognition, and methodological adaptation.