Learning Objective #1: describe how fathers of children with autism perceive their roles.

Learning Objective #2: discover whether the fathers' perceptions of their roles change after participating in a family training nursing intervention.

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Background: This qualitative study is a follow up to the In-Home Training for Fathers of Children with Autism, which aims to assist families develop language skills, increase socialization, and improve quality family interactions with their children through specific interventions taught to the fathers.
Objectives of this study: To describe in rich detail how fathers of children with autism perceive their roles and to discover whether the fathers’ perceptions of their roles change after participating in the family training nursing intervention.
Methods: Semi-structured interviews with fathers participating in the In-Home Training for Fathers of Children with Autism are conducted using a set of questions developed for the study. The interviews are videotaped, transcribed and reviewed for common patterns and significant statements.
Results: Preliminary results indicate fathers are positively affected by the interventions citing the influence of the interventions on their relationships with their children with autism and the affect this has on the entire family unit.
Conclusion: Although preliminary, results indicate fathers relate their experience with the In-Home Training project as a positive influence on their roles as fathers and in some cases change the father’s perspective of his role in the family.