Researchers to study incarcerated fathers
A major study underway at Waterford Institute of Technology explores the barriers and supports within the prison system that affect men’s ability to be fathers. It will also examine what impact, if any, being a father actually has on their lives.
As part of the study, coordinator of the Centre for Social and Family Research at WIT, Fergus Hogan, will give a lecture in Mountjoy Prison, on September 8 entitled ‘Fathering from Prison’.
Mr Hogan is the co-author of the recent Government-commissioned report ‘Strengthening Families through Fathers’ and has been invited to give a public lecture on the role and value of fathers - even where the men are in prison.
“Our recent report focused on the role that vulnerable fathers play in the lives of children and families and while all men are vulnerable in being the best father they can be to their children the report showed that men on the margins are most vulnerable.
“Unmarried and separated fathers, teenage men who become fathers and men who are incarcerated all face everyday barriers and struggles to play a responsible role in their children’s lives.
“At WIT we are committed to the study of men’s lives and fatherhood within a changing society and we do this work in association with the Waterford-based Men’s Development Network of Ireland,” Mr Hogan said.
The aim of the study will be to explore the barriers and supports within the prison system that affect men’s ability to engage in responsible father work. It will also explore the impact being a father has on their lives.
The research team at WIT has already won a number of national tenders, beating strong competition from the other universities.
A study on Irish men’s sexuality and role in crisis pregnancies, commissioned by the Crisis Pregnancy Agency and a report on children’s experiences of services in response to domestic violence, commissioned by the National Children’s office, will both be launched this semester.
* The Centre for Social and Family Research is currently accepting applications from students interested in pursuing social studies to postgraduate level. Those interested should contact Fergus Hogan at fhogan@wit.ie or 051-845672.
