“To Have a Father, Maybe I Was Going to be a Better Person”: A Qualitative Study Exploring the Effects of Biological Father Absence on Young Men in South Africa

Biological father absence affects children's well-being and development, with effects persisting into adult life due to associated factors such as economic hardship and psychological distress. In South Africa, where approximately 63% of children not living with their biological fathers, understanding how this absence affects young people is crucial. This study explores how the absence of biological fathers affects adolescent boys as they transition into adulthood. Drawing on Tsamaisano, a longitudinal study (2020-2023) involving 498 young males aged 16-20, some living with perinatal HIV and others HIV negative. We focused on 31 participants who participated in in-depth interviews about their experiences with violence in their households and communities, and reported the absence of a biological father in their upbringing. Interviews were recorded, transcribed and thematically analyzed. Four themes emerged: 1) the absence of biological fathers caused emotional pain, leading some participants to self-isolate and/or engage in aggressive behaviors as coping mechanisms; 2) participants perceived a loss of cultural and masculine identities as they felt disconnected from their paternal heritage; 3) they described experiencing poor financial security and emotional support, with mothers and other family members sometimes filling in the gaps; 4) despite these challenges, some participants reached stages of acceptance and closure over time, often with the support of extended family members provided care. This study highlights the need for interventions for adolescent boys that address emotional, social and developmental needs, which are vital for their overall health with implications for their adult lives.