Clare Bennett1, Jane Harden2. 1. Lecturer, School of Healthcare Sciences, Cardiff University, Wales. 2. Senior Lecturer, School of Healthcare Sciences, Cardiff University, Wales.
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Fathers can play an important role in their children's learning about relationships and sexuality but we know very little about the father's lived experience in this regard. AIM: To explore eight fathers' perceptions and experiences of discussing puberty, relationships and reproduction with their 10-year-old children. METHODS: The paper commences with a genealogical analysis of the history of sex education in England from the Public Health Act of 1848 to the present day. Interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) was used as both a methodology and a method. Face-to-face interviews were conducted with each father and results were analysed ideographically, followed by analysis across the group. Interpretations were developed using a Foucauldian lens of governmentality and biopower. FINDINGS: The paper explores how synthesis of IPA with a Foucauldian lens revealed significant tensions between the fathers' cognitions, accounts and behaviours, which were underpinned by an enduring perception of sexuality as taboo. CONCLUSION: By providing a contextualised understanding of the fathers' practices, this study demonstrates that a more informed approach to health promotion strategy can be achieved and the implications for nursing are explored.
BACKGROUND: Fathers can play an important role in their children's learning about relationships and sexuality but we know very little about the father's lived experience in this regard. AIM: To explore eight fathers' perceptions and experiences of discussing puberty, relationships and reproduction with their 10-year-old children. METHODS: The paper commences with a genealogical analysis of the history of sex education in England from the Public Health Act of 1848 to the present day. Interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) was used as both a methodology and a method. Face-to-face interviews were conducted with each father and results were analysed ideographically, followed by analysis across the group. Interpretations were developed using a Foucauldian lens of governmentality and biopower. FINDINGS: The paper explores how synthesis of IPA with a Foucauldian lens revealed significant tensions between the fathers' cognitions, accounts and behaviours, which were underpinned by an enduring perception of sexuality as taboo. CONCLUSION: By providing a contextualised understanding of the fathers' practices, this study demonstrates that a more informed approach to health promotion strategy can be achieved and the implications for nursing are explored.
Authors: J Shepherd; J Kavanagh; J Picot; K Cooper; A Harden; E Barnett-Page; J Jones; A Clegg; D Hartwell; G K Frampton; A Price Journal: Health Technol Assess Date: 2010-02 Impact factor: 4.014