Examining Fathers’ Roles and Responsibilities in Raising Children With Global Developmental Delay

This qualitative study explored the lived experiences of fathers raising children aged 2 to 5 years diagnosed with Global Developmental Delay (GDD). Grounded in interpretive phenomenology, the research utilized semi-structured interviews with 10 fathers in Bulacan, Philippines, to understand how they navigate their roles and responsibilities. Data were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis. Four major themes emerged: (a) navigating caregiving and financial demands, (b) emotional adaptation and coping, (c) the evolving father-child bond, and (d) transformation and redefining success. Findings indicate that fathers of children with GDD are active, emotionally engaged caregivers who undergo significant personal transformation. While the participants faced substantial financial strain and adjusted their professional lives to meet caregiving demands, they also reported increased resilience, spiritual growth, and a shift toward celebrating “small wins” in their child’s development. These results challenge traditional deficit-based or peripheral models of fatherhood and highlight the need for father-inclusive early intervention programs and expanded community-based support systems.