Aboriginal fathers / fathers' roles: Are they recognised in Australia's contemporary society?

Abstract

This thesis is focused on fathers, in particular Indigenous fathers, in general with a view to establishing what literature currently identifies and recognises the role fathers play in Australian society today. This project will mainly be a literature review of this research. This literature review provides a comprehensive and credible body of evidence into the status of current Aboriginal fathers' roles and an overview of what it means to be and perform as a father. The review contrasts and compares past and present ideologies of fatherhood. After the presentation of this literature, the discussion will summarize the literature findings. This discussion will clarify the current state of Indigenous fatherhood, how their roles are perceived socially and what benefits fatherhood brings to the wellbeing of the family and society as a whole. It also provides some possible holistic solutions to current social dilemmas facing fathers so that they can be the best fathers they desire to be.