The absence of fathers in households is more than a family issue, it is a societal crisis with lasting consequences for individuals and communities.

Prof Fazel Freeks from the North-West University’s (NWU’s) Faculty of Theology and Prof Elzahne Simeon de Jager from the subject group Social Work are leading a community engagement project to explore how this phenomenon shapes the lives of children, increasing their vulnerability and need for protection.

Their research examines the deep-rooted challenges around father absence and seeks solutions to restore stability in affected communities.

"Father absence is not just a personal issue; it has societal implications," Prof Freeks says. "Our research highlights how children without father figures often face increased risks, including neglect and abuse."

Previous research by Prof Freeks and Prof De Jager focused on street children and indicated that many found themselves on the streets due to the absence of a father figure. Their latest study explores the broader consequences of father absence and is titled “Father absence as a risk factor for child neglect and abuse: a biblical and multidisciplinary approach to transform broken families in the South African context”.

Father absence is a global crisis

According to global research, father absence ranks as one of the most pressing social concerns, alongside crime, violence and drug abuse. "The statistics speak for themselves," Prof de Jager says. "Many of the social problems communities face can be linked to the absence of responsible father figures."

The project adopts a transdisciplinary approach, integrating social work, theology and community development to address the issue from multiple perspectives. The collaboration seeks to develop strategies that help families navigate the challenges associated with a father's absence.

"A transdisciplinary method allows us to move beyond academic discussion and engage directly with communities," Prof Freeks said. "By working together, we can provide practical solutions that help rebuild family structures."

This approach aims to offer tools to mitigate the negative impact of father absence and encourage stable family environments. The researchers emphasise that policy interventions, community engagement and faith-based initiatives all play a role in addressing the issue effectively.

"Our goal is to not only study the problem but also contribute to real change," Prof de Jager says. "If we can equip families with better support systems, we take a step toward stronger, more resilient communities."

Prof Fazel Freeks

Prof Elzahne Simeon de Jager