Abstract

This study explored parenting stress experienced by single-income fathers. An online survey was conducted on 100 fathers raising children aged 6 years or younger who were solely responsible for providing financially for their families without additional income from their partner. Data were analyzed using a modified consensual qualitative research method. Four main stress domains emerged: (1) difficulties in work_family balance, (2) partner relationship and characteristics, (3) daily life changes because of parenting, and (4) relationship and characteristics of children. Fathers of single income families experienced pressure to make a living alone, economic burden, work_family role conflict because of stress at work and ambivalent feelings and frustration such as pity and resentment toward their spouse, difficulty in forming a relationship with a child, and a sense of alienation. Finally, the significance of this study is discussed and suggestions for follow-up studies are made.