This study explores how fathers exist within socially constructed micro and macro systems and are positioned within a discourse on gendered masculinity. Seven fathers from the Nanaimo, B.C. region volunteered to participate in two focus groups, to discuss “what makes a father”. An exploration of the men’s lived experiences reflected on memories from childhood that influenced choices they make in fatherhood. Through generative exchanges and personal narratives subjective and evolved perspectives on gender binaries, masculine stereotypes and traditional belief systems were articulated. The compilation and analysis of data attempts to disrupt preconceived notions of masculinity in the 21st century. Based on the focus group data the study reveals roles that challenge traditional paternal archetypes relevant to parental relationships and demonstrates that contemporary fathers continue to evolve and navigate what is being referred to as “new” fatherhood. The study contributes to the research on fathers as an exclusive research subject and their understanding of fatherhood in their own terms. The fathers in this study are challenging antiquated belief systems of how men are supposed to be within the structures of gendered masculinity. The study indicates there is no one-way or right way to be a dad and the curiosity and a conscious effort to trouble heteronormative archetypes by the participants indicates that men create space to chose to father according to their subjective experiences. / Graduate

This study examines recommendations regarding what children need from their fathers at various ages and what men can do to help their children with those needs. Data collected in this study do not support recommendations as they appear in the conceptual ethic of Generative Fathering (Dollahite & Hawkins, 1998). However, trends in the data suggest that, across the lifespan, children have a primary need for overt displays of love and nurturing. There is evidence that young children need their fathers to be physically present. Young children also seem to need support and acceptance from their fathers, though how exactly fathers demonstrate that support and acceptance might change as the child develops. The data suggest that as the child transitions out of childhood and into adolescence and adulthood, the need for physical presence diminishes and the needs for support and acceptance, and advice and guidance emerge as more primary. / Department of Counseling Psychology and Guidance Services

This thesis explores the impact of the new Children’s Act, Act 38 of 2005 on the acquisition by unmarried fathers of parental responsibilities and rights. The research has shown that the Children’s Act has fundamentally transformed the way in which parental responsibilities and rights are acquired. Parental responsibilities and rights can now be automatically acquired by a committed unmarried father. Although the Act has undergone major changes, unmarried fathers must still satisfy many more requirements than mothers, and thus it is asserted that the Act is deemed not to have been progressive enough. Granting full parental responsibilities and rights to both parents, based on their biological link to the child, would meet the constitutional demands of sex and gender equality. This would also place the focus on the child, and the best interests of the child. The importance in securing these best interests that the presence of both parents has in the life of the child is emphasised. / Thesis (LL.M. (Comparative Child Law))--North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2011

Thesis (Th. M.)--Western Conservative Baptist Seminary, 1990. / Abstract. Includes bibliographical references (leaves 123-135).

Thesis (M.A.)--University of Toronto, 2004. / Adviser: Katreena Scott.

Thesis (M.A.)--Humboldt State University, 2008. / Includes bibliographical references (leaves 59-65). Also available via Humboldt Digital Scholar.

Thesis (Ph. D.)--University of Toronto, 2007. / Source: Dissertation Abstracts International, Volume: 68-06, Section: B, page: 4174. Includes bibliographical references (leaves 184-196).

Thesis (M.A.)--Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, 1997. / Abstract. Includes bibliographical references (leaves 95-104).

Thesis (Ph. D.)--University of Washington, 1998. / Vita. Includes bibliographic references (leaves [164]-180).

Thesis (Ed.D.)--Teachers College, Columbia University, 1969. / Typescript; issued also on microfilm. Sponsor: Paul Vahanian. Dissertation Committee: Laura Singer. Includes bibliographical references (leaves [140]-148).