Fathers' experiences of being in change during pregnancy and early parenthood in a context of intimate partner violence
Journal article, Peer reviewed, Journal article
Published version
Date
2016-06-16Metadata
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Original version
International Journal of Qualitative Studies on Health and Well-being 2016, 11 http://dx.doi.org/10.3402/qhw.v11.30935Abstract
Objective
: Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a large public health problem with far-reaching consequences for those
involved. The aim of this study was to explore fathers’ experiences of change during pregnancy and early parenthood in the
context of IPV.
Methods
: The methodological approach in this interview study was hermeneutics, based on a lifeworld perspective. Ten
men, who had subjected their partners to violence during the childbearing period, and had become fathers within the
previous 6 years, participated.
Results
: The analysis revealed four themes: beginning to acknowledge that you are inflicting violence, receiving
confirmation that you are more than just a perpetrator of violence, becoming aware of the child, and the desire to receive
support in the process of learning how to become a father. Levinas’ concept ‘‘the face of the other’’ is used to interpret the
findings.
Conclusion
: This study contributes to a more nuanced and expanded picture of IPV. It shows that men who inflict violence
want to be and learn how to be fathers. We need more knowledge about how to stop violent acts and support these men in
the process of fatherhood.