Improving Adolescent Health Through Enhanced Father-Son Relationships

University of Michigan: Prevention Research Center of Michigan

Topics:
Healthy Youth | Tobacco Prevention & Control | Substance Abuse Prevention | Violence Prevention

The Fathers and Sons program, a partnership of the prevention research center, the local health department, and eight community organizations, is designed to improve relationships between African American boys aged 8 to 12 years and their nonresident fathers. Researchers anticipate that frequent and positive father-son contact will increase healthy behaviors among both the fathers and sons and reduce or prevent risk behaviors such as alcohol, drug, and tobacco use; violent behavior; and early sexual initiation among the boys. The program, characterized by three themes (effective communication, cultural awareness, and skill building) includes a 15-session curriculum, a facilitator training manual, and a community resource guide. Group sessions offer a safe setting in which to practice skills and learn about diversity, communication, relationships, health, and other related topics, and to share experiences with other people facing similar challenges. During the program, fathers and their sons spend about 45 hours together. Researchers are evaluating the program’s effect on health-risk behaviors, satisfaction with family relationships, and other areas.

Read case study of this intervention.

 

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