This mixed methods study explored Australian fathers’ views about relationships and sexuality education (RSE) and their role within it. In the article we examine contemporary fathers’ engagement with discussing relationships and sexuality with their children, compared to their recollections of their own fathers’ involvement. We draw on survey data from 612 diverse Australian fathers of children aged 3-12 years and interview data from 10 fathers. We find that, according to participants’ self-reports, fathers’ involvement in RSE has increased from one generation to the next. We identify five domains that have influenced this change: shifting norms regarding the role of fathers, gender and sexuality; a rejection of their own fathers’ approach; concerns for daughters; the women in their lives; and a sense of responsibility. We argue that schools and other RSE providers should engage with these domains to support fathers to take greater strides towards strengthened engagement in RSE with their children.

Item Type:	Refereed Article
Keywords:	relationships, sexuality, gender, father, education, parent-child communication
Research Division:	Education
Research Group:	Specialist studies in education
Research Field:	Gender, sexuality and education
Objective Division:	Health
Objective Group:	Evaluation of health and support services
Objective Field:	Health education and promotion
UTAS Author:	Thomas, Katy (Mrs Katy Thomas)
UTAS Author:	Nash, R (Dr Rosie Nash)
UTAS Author:	Patterson, K (Dr Kira Patterson)
UTAS Author:	Swabey, K (Professor Karen Swabey)
ID Code:	154474
Year Published:	2022
Deposited By:	Education
Deposited On:	2022-12-02
Last Modified:	2023-02-09
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