Unraveling the threads of vulnerability and resilience: Young men's journey through unintended fatherhood

Objective: This study investigates the interplay between vulnerability and resilience in young men who unexpectedly become fathers. Background: While previous research has primarily focused on the vulnerable circumstances limiting young fathers' childcare involvement, recent studies indicate resilient adaptation to their new role. This study is the first to analyze both vulnerability and resilience as interconnected concepts in young fathers’ lives. Method: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 14 young, Dutch fathers. Transcripts were thematically analyzed to reveal forms of interrelatedness between vulnerability and resilience in their lives. Results: Analysis revealed that young fathers grappled with aggravated vulnerability due to the adversity of unintended fatherhood. They coped with these vulnerable circumstances by cultivating a resilient attitude. This attitude, however, also led to limited emotional processing and disengagement with support. Their resilient attitude thus, paradoxically, risked perpetuating existing vulnerabilities. Conclusion: This study highlights the interplay between resilience and vulnerability in young, unintentional fathers, underscoring the need for interventions assisting with the assemblage of support while recognizing and praising resilient attitudes.