Paternal involvement beyond residence : the role of non-resident fathers in raising their children in Tshwane Metro, Gauteng

Abstract

This study examines the role non-resident fathers play in the raising of their children over the life course. The main question posed in this study is What caregiving roles do non-resident biological fathers play in raising their children over the life course? The following are the three subsidiary questions formulated to address this:  What are the indicators of responsible fathering in a South African context?  Which and whose positive fathering roles do we exclude by assuming that father presence equals active involvement?  How do non-resident fathers care for their children? The life course perspective was chosen to trace the caregiving role played by non-resident fathers in raising their children. The life course perspective was chosen because it recognises that the core principles of an individual's life course comprise a complex interplay of biological, psychological and social elements. The approach also examines developmental inferences of changes in environmental elements while tracing individual role transitions, turning points and trajectories throughout the course of a person's life. A qualitative study was conducted by way of 30 in-depth interviews with 23 non-resident fathers based in Gauteng province. The data collection process lasted for 12 months – from August 2020 to August 2021. The methodology was adjusted in line with COVID-19 restrictions; as such, some interviews were conducted telephonically and online. The study found that non-resident fathers play a significant role in the raising of their children. However, many face a myriad of challenges in their attempt to be more involved in child-rearing. The identified challenges varied from maternal gatekeeping to unfair treatment by the judiciary. Despite the challenges, participants indicated having embarked on measures to gain custody of, or at least access to, their children. This study makes an important contribution by dispelling two myths that have dominated popular discourse in South Africa in the last decade. Firstly, it dispels the myth that Black South African fathers, especially non-resident fathers, are all irresponsible and uncaring towards their children. Secondly, the study shows that co-residence with children is not the only predictor of paternal involvement, and research participants make sustained efforts to remain active in the lives of children.