Disadvantaged, Urban Fathers' Health and Risky Health Behaviors: The Role of Relationship Status and Fathering Practice

Abstract

The study investigates the association between fathers’ relationship status, parenting behaviors, and their health and engagement in risky health behaviors using data from the Fragile Families and Child Wellbeing survey. Results from pooled time series fixed effects models indicate a consistent significant association between fathers’ parenting practices and the health of socio-economically disadvantaged, urban fathers. Further, results from cross-lagged regression models indicate a bidrectional relationship between fathering practices and paternal depression. The results suggest that the parenting practices of fathers has broader impacts than solely child development, and that it is also necessary for parenting programs to address the mental health needs of fathers in order to facilitate greater parental engagement.