The intergenerational transmission of fatherhood in Turkey: A qualitative study

The aim of this study was to examine the intergenerational transmission of fatherhood in Turkey through the experiences and perceptions of three generations of fathers. In this study, face-to-face interviews were conducted with fathers from three different generations in order to reveal their experiences and perceptions of fatherhood. A phenomenological approach, one of the qualitative research methods, was used in the study. Criterion sampling technique, one of the purposeful sampling techniques, was used to select the participants. Demographic Information Form and Semi-structured Interview Form were used as data collection tools. Interviews were conducted face-to-face or online. Content analysis technique was used to analyze the data. Expert opinion was consulted during the data analysis process and intra-rater reliability was calculated. When the findings of the study were evaluated in general, it was determined that fathers' disciplinary and instructive aspects were transmitted across generations; however, the ways of disciplining and the subject areas taught changed in the between generations. In addition, it was found that the emphasis on the breadwinner aspect of fatherhood decreased in the third generation, while emotional support for the child and participation in childcare and housework increased. It was also found that fathers from all three generations tried to compensate for the negative or deficient aspects of fatherhood that they saw in their own fathers, and took the fathering behaviors that they considered positive and appropriate as role models. In particular, while the compensatory behaviors of the fathers in the second generation emerged at a relatively higher level, the statements of the fathers in the third generation increased in positive role modeling behaviors. Regarding the views on how fathers act with their spouses in the child-rearing process, it was determined that mother-based child-rearing processes continued; however, fathers' involvement and cooperation in the child-rearing process increased in the third generation. It was also learned that fathers from all three generations characterized the meaning of fatherhood as feeling positive emotions, increased responsibilities, meaning of life and family cohesion. Finally, it was determined that the place of residence, social environment, economic status, cultural and moral values, professional characteristics, personality traits and experiences, gender of the child and the child's behaviors were the factors affecting fatherhood. The findings of the study were reported and discussed in the light of the literature.