Absent Fathers: Understanding Perceptions Adult Males have of their Absent Fathers - Paperback

by Jody Adewale (Author)

A significant amount of research has been done on families and their dynamics. There has been an emphasis on the effects of parental absence in much of today's research. This book discusses the specific phenomenon of paternal absence in a male's life and, in particular, the male's own perception of the role their father's absence played in the male's life. The study gathered the ideas and understandings of nine male participants regarding each of their fathers; and examined the individual male's thoughts and feelings regarding their father in a qualitative manner. It addresses how such perceptions were developed and how they currently manifest, with the attempt to focus on individual understandings of their father's absence. As a result of each individual examination, the following questions were raised: how does a child's positive, negative, or neutral perception of an absent father develop, and is such perception relevant to the manner or reason for their father's absence? The findings included an emphasis on the importance of perception rather than situation. It suggests clinical implications for individuals who were raised without a father, such as exploration of feelings/perception of their father, working on changing faulty perceptions and identifying defenses that are used to cope.

Author Biography

Jody Adewale has worked with children, adolescents, and adults in various settings. He has a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology (CSPP) with a master's in Marriage and Family Therapy; and a Bachelors in Psychology from the University of Southern California. Jody's work with children includes psychotherapy at residential facilities and within hospital settings; on pediatric and adolescent units. He also has done individual and group psychotherapy for children with learning difficulties, as well as, psychological testing to identify their specific areas of deficit. Furthermore, Jody has worked with inner city children and their families, providing psychological support as well as education in the areas of; drug addiction, behavioral/emotional disorders, learning deficits, and utilizing mental health. Jody is dedicated to his work and searches to identify ways that improve the lives which he encounters. As an enthusiastic individual and a former football player at the University of Southern California, Jody offers a unique perspective and genuine warmth to the field of psychology and mental health.