Redefining Fatherhood: A Qualitative Exploration of Fathering Practice in Pediatric Cancer Families in China.
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INTRODUCTION: Few studies have examined the unique roles of fathers in the context of pediatric cancer. This study explores the distinct characteristics of the roles of fathers of children with cancer, emphasizing how fatherhood experiences in the context of illness differ from traditional fatherhood roles. METHOD: In this study, an Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis was adopted to guide the research design. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with fathers of children with cancer (n = 12) at a children's hospital in Shanghai. Themes were extracted through the phenomenological analysis, focusing on identity adaptation and the shift in parenting perspectives. RESULTS: Three main themes were extracted: (1) fatherhood dilemmas, (2) adjusting fatherhood, and (3) rebuilding fatherhood. These findings suggest that the practice of fatherhood is deeply influenced by social contexts and is constantly being reshaped through individual reflection and adaptation. DISCUSSION: This study highlights fatherhood in the context of pediatric cancer as a process of adjustment and identity reconstruction and recommends a supportive environment to enhance fathers' parenting experiences.