The Use of Focus Groups to Identify Needs and Expectations of Young Fathers in a Male Involvement Program

A focus group was used to elicit information about the needs of young fathers who were interested in participating in a male involvement program to increase parenting responsibility. Seven focus groups were conducted with 17 young fathers in order to identify specific curricula components. The discussions were tape recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using content analysis. Young fathers identified the most needed curricula components to enable responsible fatherhood. This included human sexuality knowledge and skills as well as employment. Twelve of the fathers who subsequently enrolled in the program completed a behavioral risk assessment. Their behavioral profiles were consistent with the needs they identified. Involving young fathers in selecting curriculum content can be instrumental in tailoring educational programs to meet the unique needs of this group.