“The pandemic was a bit of a blessing”. Re-writing the rulebook – how the pandemic prompted fathers to re-evaluate their lives and roles

Background

Substantial public health measures in Victoria, Australia during the COVID-19 pandemic led to widespread disruption to daily life. Little is known about the impact of these changes on fathers residing in Victoria, a state that endured the longest and potentially harshest pandemic-related restrictions in the world.

Aim

To explore reflections of Victorian fathers on their parenting journey during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Method

A descriptive qualitative research design was used to collect data via semi-structured interviews. Men (n = 7) were recruited through social media and self-nominated to participate in interviews. Data were analysed using Braun and Clarke’s six-phase reflexive thematic analysis process.

Findings

Four themes were generated from the thematic analysis: What makes or made the fathering role easier? Positive coping strategies; Fathers’ reflections on the positive and negative impacts of the pandemic; and the pandemic as a prompt to seek balance.

Conclusion

While the acute stages of the pandemic have passed, the learning from the experience is ongoing. The pandemic influenced family relationships and unearthed variations in equitable service provision, leave entitlement and shifts in perceptions of fatherhood. The pandemic created a unique experience that triggered fathers to engage in a process of self-discovery and re-prioritisation of their role and relationship with their family.