Exploring participant experience in a faith-based program: A case study on men's development as father and mentor

The purpose of this qualitative case study was to explore the perceptions and learning experiences of men participating in a Christian faith-based program designed to support their development as fathers and mentors. Increased understanding of the perceptions and experiences of men within this context has the potential to increase father engagement within the family structure and in society at large. Adult learning practices are discussed as a basis for exploring how men develop as critically reflective learners and agents of change. This study offers a rare examination of how a multiyear curriculum can cultivate sustainable mentoring relationships, encourage vulnerability in dialogue, and lead to personal transformation.;Twenty men were interviewed for this study. Based on a cross-case analysis of interview data, participants were further categorized into three qualitative groups: participants raised with an engaged father, participants raised with an unengaged father, and participants raised without a father. The data revealed that these groups differed in their developed personal attributes and in how they engaged with their family and community.;Three major findings are uncovered in this study: (a) participants learned to navigate their role as father and mentor through informal and formal learning engagements; (b) participants developed effective leadership traits, the drive to pursue relationships, and an increased ability to connect with others; and (c) participants developed an increased capacity to embrace leadership responsibility within their home environment and engage more intimately with their family. The majority of participants also became leaders within their community by becoming an engaged mentor, serving as a role model, and establishing new initiatives.;A number of recommendations are made to support the design of men's development and fatherhood programs. Suggestions for ongoing future research are also identified.