The health of fathers of children with a life-limiting condition
Research type
Research Study
Full title
The health of fathers of children with a life-limiting condition; a mixed methods study
IRAS ID
301858
Contact name
Victoria Fisher
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of York
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 1 months, 30 days
Research summary
The number of children diagnosed with a life-limiting or life-threatening condition is increasing. These are conditions that may shorten a child or a young person's life. Therefore, an increasing number of parents are providing extensive care for their child at home, often coordinating all of their care needs. Existing research is heavily focussed upon the mothers of these children, meaning that we know less about fathers. Understanding the experiences, health and support needs of fathers is important not only for fathers themselves, but in ensuring that they feel able to care for their child. We now know that mothers of children with a life-limiting condition are more likely to suffer from physical and psychological health issues and it is important that we consider the health of fathers. This is in line with guidance from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence calling for more research surrounding the psychological health of parents of children with a life-limiting condition. There has been an increase in research surrounding the experiences of these fathers but the broader impact of their experiences on their own health and well-being has not been explored.
The study will comprise of 2 parts that will run simultaneously; a quantitative survey to provide some descriptive information about fathers' characteristics and physical and mental health. The second part will involve interviewing fathers of children with a life-limiting condition to gain a deep understanding of their experiences and how their experiences impact upon their own health. Fathers can take part in the survey or the survey plus interview, depending on preference.
REC name
London - Bloomsbury Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
21/LO/0591
Date of REC Opinion
15 Nov 2021
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion