Abstract
One hundred and twenty eight young fathers participated in an assessment of risk behaviors and service needs prior to entering a program for young fathers. Of this group, 73% were unemployed, 69% were school drop-outs, almost 40% had substance abuse problems, close to 30% had committed a felony, and less than half had declared paternity for their children. The majority of these young fathers desired employment services and educational/vocational training. Despite their risk behaviors, young fathers did not want substance abuse counseling, child support services, or help in obtaining a GED. There appears to be a discrepancy between the problems and needs, and the services which these young fathers requested. Many young fathers believed employment would be a panacea to all their problems. These findings suggest that more attention should be given to examining these issues in programs targeting young fathers. Services such as preventive health and mental health should be considered prior to the final goals of employment and establishment of paternity.
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Weinman, M.L., Smith, P.B. & Buzi, R.S. Young Fathers: An Analysis of Risk Behaviors and Service Needs. Child and Adolescent Social Work Journal 19, 437–453 (2002). https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1021193629472
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1021193629472