O Envolvimento Paterno no Processo Terapêutico

Abstract

Father's involvement in their child's therapeutic process is considered relevant by psychology domain professionals. However, the studies are scarce. The present study aims to explore clinical psychologists' perception of the ways, factors and consequences of that involvement. The used methodology is qualitative, using semi-structured interviews with 16 professionals who intervene with children/adolescents. The interview's content analysis allowed the extraction of a set of father's involvement dimensions which translate into attendance, interests and leisure, socio-affective support, cognitive stimulation and learning, economic sustenance and well-being, monitoring, authority and discipline, and partner support. In terms of determinant factors, the father's childhood experience with his own father seems to be the main factor, followed by awareness about the importance of the father's role, financial stability, and availability. In the therapeutic process, the professionals recognize that a larger involvement exists, which is considered beneficial, allowing the consolidation of the work done in the appointment and its generalization to the varied life contexts. The psychology and therapeutic process's prejudice, the conflicts between parents and the father-child relationship are highlighted barriers. The positive experience with psychology, the perception that their child needs psychological help and the signal detection, are promoting factors. These and other results are interpreted and discussed accordingly with the domain's literature. The study's main limitations are also presented, as well as recommendations for the improvement of clinical practice, health and well-being.