Embedding Responsible Fatherhood Programming in Health Behavior Research: End-of-Project Results From the FELLAS Study.

OBJECTIVES

This study evaluated the Fathers Empowered to Learn, Lead, and Achieve Success (FELLAS®) fatherhood program. Outcomes commonly used in fatherhood program evaluations align with key social determinants of health (SDOH) identified in Healthy People 2030, including economic stability, family functioning, and social relationships. Examining these outcomes provides insight into how fatherhood programs may influence upstream determinants of health behavior and long-term well-being.

METHODS

Fathers participated in a 35-hour, multi-component intervention designed to improve life skills, parenting practices, relationship functioning, and economic stability. The analytic sample included 216 fathers who completed questionnaires at pretest, posttest, and six-month follow-up. Outcomes included five multi-item self-report scales (attitudes toward finances, parenting skills, father involvement, conflict resolution, and communication with partner) and two employment indicators (unemployment and full-time employment). Qualitative focus groups were conducted to assess participant experiences and perceived skill development.

RESULTS

Participants demonstrated statistically significant improvements from pretest to posttest across all seven outcome measures. Improvements were sustained at six-month follow-up for six outcomes, with attenuation observed for father involvement. Significant reductions in unemployment and increases in full-time employment were observed and maintained over time. Qualitative findings supported these results, with participants reporting improvements in parenting, relationships, communication, and employment-related behaviors.

CONCLUSION

FELLAS demonstrated meaningful improvements in outcomes aligned with SDOH domains. These findings suggest that fatherhood programs may contribute to improved family and population health through upstream pathways. Results from this descriptive evaluation provide a foundation for more rigorous future research examining causal effects and mechanisms of change.