The FELLAS (Fathers Empowered to Learn, Lead, & Achieve Success) Fatherhood Project: Pilot Study Results

Objective: Researchers examined (1) changes in communication, conflict resolution, positive parenting skills, financial management, and 2 measures of employment status among participants in the FELLAS fatherhood program, and (2) whether pretest-posttest changes were maintained at 6-month follow-up. Methods: We recruited fathers to participate in a program designed to help them improve relationships, parenting skills, and make progress toward economic stability. Fathers in the program completed questionnaires prior to the beginning of the program, at the end of the program, and at 6-month follow-up. Some fathers also participated in focus groups. Results: Participants showed statistically significant improvement from pretest to posttest for four of the 6 outcome measures. These changes were maintained at the 6-month follow-up for 2 of the 4 measures. Additionally, the other 2 outcome measures, which did not show significant change from pretest to posttest, did show significant change from pretest to follow-up. Participant feedback from fathers in the focus groups was also positive. Conclusion: These positive results set the stage for a more rigorous evaluation of the intervention.