Share Your Fatherhood Story
Single Fathers Network is conducting a nationwide research study, funded by the Spencer Foundation, and led by Dr. Evandra Catherine, Head Researcher, to better understand how Black fathers emotionally socialize their Black sons from birth through age eight. This study centers Black fathers' voices, experiences, and wisdom — because your story matters.
Our Mission
Why We're Listening
Black fathers have always played a powerful role in shaping the emotional lives of their sons — yet research has often overlooked or undervalued these contributions. This study is changing that narrative by placing Black fathers at the center of the conversation.
Single Fathers Network is gathering strengths-based knowledge that can meaningfully contribute to education and child development research. Rather than focusing on deficits, this work lifts up what Black fathers are already doing to guide their sons' emotional growth — the everyday lessons, the quiet moments of reassurance, the cultural wisdom passed down through generations.
What We're Building
A body of research rooted in the real experiences and strengths of Black fathers, designed to inform better educational practices and family support systems for years to come.
Why It Matters Now
The emotional foundation you lay for your son during his earliest years shapes how he navigates school, friendships, and the world. Your insights can help other fathers and the professionals who support families.
Eligibility
Who This Study Is For
This study welcomes a broad and inclusive range of Black fathers and father figures. Whether you're a biological dad, a stepfather, a grandfather, an uncle, or a mentor who plays a fathering role — your perspective is valued and needed.
You may be eligible to participate if you meet the following criteria:
Age 18 or Older
Adult fathers and father figures of any age are welcome to participate in this study.
Black Identity
You identify as Black, African, Caribbean, Black biracial, or another Black identity.
Father or Father Figure
You are a father or father figure to a Black boy between the ages of 0 and 8.
Participation
What Participation Looks Like
We've designed this study to be straightforward, respectful of your time, and centered on conversation. There are no tests or right answers — just an opportunity to share your experiences and reflections as a father.
If you choose to join, participation involves three components:
1
Demographic Questionnaire
A short set of background questions to help the research team understand the diversity of fathers in the study. This takes approximately 10 minutes and can be completed on your own time.
2
Focus Group Discussion
A guided conversation with approximately four other Black fathers where you'll share experiences around your son's emotional development. Plan for about 90 minutes of rich, meaningful dialogue.
3
Individual Interview
A one-on-one conversation with the research team to go deeper into your personal story and fathering experiences. This session takes approximately 60 minutes.
Your Time
Your Time Commitment
We understand that your time is valuable. This study was designed to be manageable alongside your daily life as a father, professional, and community member. Here's what to expect:
10 min
Questionnaire
Brief demographic survey completed at your convenience
90 min
Focus Group
Group conversation with fellow Black fathers
60 min
Interview
One-on-one conversation about your experiences
In total, plan for approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes across all three components. Sessions are scheduled flexibly to accommodate your availability.
Flexible Format
How We'll Meet
Accessibility is a priority. We want to make it as easy as possible for you to participate, no matter where you are in the country.
Virtual Sessions
Join from the comfort of your home via secure video conference. All you need is a device with internet access and a quiet space where you can speak openly.
In-Person Sessions
Where possible, in-person gatherings may be arranged at convenient community locations. These offer a chance to connect face-to-face with other fathers.
Focus groups may be facilitated by the principal investigator or a representative from Single Fathers Network, ensuring a culturally affirming and comfortable environment for every participant.
Thank You
Compensation for Your Time
Your time, wisdom, and willingness to share your story are deeply valued. To honor your contribution, all participants receive financial compensation for completing the study components.
Focus Group
$75 for participating in the 90-minute group conversation with fellow fathers.
Individual Interview
$75 for completing the 60-minute one-on-one interview session.
Participants receive $150 total for completing both the focus group and individual interview.
Your Rights
Your Privacy and Your Choice
Your comfort and autonomy are at the heart of this research. We want you to feel safe, respected, and in control throughout every step of the process. Here's what you should know:
Completely Voluntary
Participation is entirely your choice. You are never obligated to join, continue, or answer any question you're not comfortable with.
Skip or Stop Anytime
You can skip any question or withdraw from the study at any time with no penalty and no questions asked.
Your Identity Is Protected
Your name will not appear in any published results. Findings are typically shared in summary form to protect individual identities.
A Note on Focus Groups
Because focus groups include other participants in the conversation, full confidentiality cannot be guaranteed. However, all participants will be asked to respect the privacy of the group.
Timeline
Study Timeline
This study is moving forward with clear milestones. Here's what to expect so you can plan ahead and decide the best time to get involved.
1
Recruitment Opens
July 2026
The research team begins outreach to identify and enroll eligible fathers and father figures across the country.
The research team begins outreach to identify and enroll eligible fathers and father figures across the country.
2
Enrollment Closes
September 2026
Final deadline to express interest and complete the eligibility screening process.
Final deadline to express interest and complete the eligibility screening process.
3
Focus Groups Begin
October 2026
Group conversations and individual interviews are scheduled and conducted with enrolled participants.
Group conversations and individual interviews are scheduled and conducted with enrolled participants.
4
Study Concludes
January 2027
All data collection is completed. The research team begins analyzing findings to share with the broader community.
All data collection is completed. The research team begins analyzing findings to share with the broader community.
Don't wait! Spots are limited. If you're interested, reach out early to secure your place in this important study.
Take Action
How to Join the Study
Ready to share your story? We'd love to hear from you. Whether you have questions, want more details, or are ready to express your interest, the first step is simple — register today.
Dr. Evandra Catherine
Principal Investigator
Single Fathers Network Study
Research Professor, Arizona State University
Single Fathers Network Study
Research Professor, Arizona State University
Your voice, your experiences, and your wisdom as a father are essential to building a more complete understanding of how Black sons grow emotionally. By participating, you're not only contributing to research — you're helping shape the resources, programs, and support systems that future families will benefit from.
"When Black fathers speak, the world has much to learn."