Father's Level of Education: An Overlooked Barrier to Involvement

• In Event: 28.019 - Understanding Engagement From the Perspective of Parents, Families, and Communities

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the educational involvement behaviors of fathers of middle school students. The fathers’ perceptions of barriers to involvement were also examined. The sample consisted of 173 fathers of students in grades six through eight. This study uses a quantitative, cross-sectional, non-experimental survey research design. Paired-samples t-tests, were used to analyze survey data. Participants were more likely to be involved in their child’s education in activities based in the home than in activities based in the school. In addition, the participants were more likely to view tangible barriers to involvement as having a more significant impact on their involvement. This study has several implications for schools, seeking to support father involvement and eliminate obstacles.

Authors

• Karl Meyer, Saint Mary's College of California

• S. Marshall Perry, Saint Mary's College of California