Young fathers and childhood domestic abuse
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Exploring the lived experiences of young fathers with a history of domestic abuse in their childhood
IRAS ID
364576
Contact name
Dawn Brenchley
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Surrey
Duration of Study in the UK
3 years, 11 months, 30 days
Research summary
This study will focus on the experiences of young fathers aged 18-25 years, living in England, who have a child under the age of 5 years of age and who self-identify as having experienced domestic abuse as a child. The age of participants has been chosen because this fits within the recognised age range for a description of ‘young fathers’ as under the age of 25 years (Fatherhood Institute, 2013). Fathers with a child under the age of 5 years of age has been included as this fits within the scope of the Healthy Child Programme that is offered to all families within England. (Office for Health Improvement and Disparities (OHID), 2023).
The study aims to explore, in depth, how domestic abuse in childhood, influences and informs journeys of fatherhood and experiences of young fathers. Such knowledge could enlighten those who seek to support young parents and children. In addition, most voices that have been heard in current literature have been from young fathers who are from white, working-class, fathers in specific geographic demography.
This mixed methods study aims to reach participants across a range of backgrounds, ethnicity and demography. The findings from this research will be beneficial to the practice of professionals who work to support young parents and to improve knowledge and understanding of young fathers’ experiences. The findings from this study will be useful to consider when creating programmes to support young fathers in the NHS and charity sectors. The study is being undertaken as part of a PhD research project. The study started in October 2024 and is expected to conclude in 2028.REC name
North East - Newcastle & North Tyneside 2 Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
25/NE/0216
Date of REC Opinion
16 Dec 2025
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion