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<p>This descriptive phenomenological study explored the experiences of non-offending fathers whose children experienced sexual abuse within the United States. This research aimed to understand the challenges and needs of these fathers and the insights they could offer from their direct experiences. Five fathers participated in in-depth interviews, which were analyzed using Giorgi’s method. The analysis revealed six key themes: (1) Emotional Turmoil Following Disclosure, (2) Gender Expectations and Emotional Containment, (3) Barriers to Accessing Care, (4) Finding Support Through Counseling, (5) Mixed Experiences of Social Support, (6) Disillusioned and Distressed with Legal Systems, and 7) Father-Child Relationship Changes. These findings show the intense psychological distress experienced by fathers, the impact of gender and cultural norms on their responses, the challenges in finding appropriate support, and the positive effects of therapy. The study contributes to the limited literature on non-offending fathers. It provides important implications for clinical work, advocacy, and future research in supporting fathers and families affected by child sexual abuse.</p>

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Child Sexual Abuse: The Experience of Non-Offending Fathers

  • 期刊论文

  • 发表日期：

    2026年3月16日

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  • McKayla Harrison,
  • Kenneth Parnell

摘要

This descriptive phenomenological study explored the experiences of non-offending fathers whose children experienced sexual abuse within the United States. This research aimed to understand the challenges and needs of these fathers and the insights they could offer from their direct experiences. Five fathers participated in in-depth interviews, which were analyzed using Giorgi’s method. The analysis revealed six key themes: (1) Emotional Turmoil Following Disclosure, (2) Gender Expectations and Emotional Containment, (3) Barriers to Accessing Care, (4) Finding Support Through Counseling, (5) Mixed Experiences of Social Support, (6) Disillusioned and Distressed with Legal Systems, and 7) Father-Child Relationship Changes. These findings show the intense psychological distress experienced by fathers, the impact of gender and cultural norms on their responses, the challenges in finding appropriate support, and the positive effects of therapy. The study contributes to the limited literature on non-offending fathers. It provides important implications for clinical work, advocacy, and future research in supporting fathers and families affected by child sexual abuse.