Introduction / Rationale: In the family dynamics, fathers are the one who are referred to as ‘Pillar of the home’. Society expects fathers to be strong as they carry the whole family. Traditionally, research has always concentrated more on mothers as primary caregivers. The stress of managing the daily demands of caregiving, the pressure to work and provide for their children to be able to do therapy, coupled with the need to fulfill other roles, such as a provider or partner, can further complicate fathers’ emotional health.
Objectives: This study aimed to explore the lived experiences of Filipino fathers of children with special needs. Specific objectives include identifying the challenges faced by fathers in their caregiving roles, examining the emotional and psychological impacts of raising a child with special needs, and investigating how these experiences influence their relationships with family members.
Methods / Approach: The researchers used a qualitative approach through semi-structured interviews and an open-ended questionnaire to collect the experiences of these fathers of children with special needs. Moreover, thematic analysis was used in this research to identify and analyze key patterns across the narrative of the participants.
Results / Practice Implications: Five themes emerged from this study including: Journey of understanding of the father; Financial constraints; Limited support system; Restructuring and rethinking life choices; and Need for advocacy and campaigns. The results indicate that fathers of children with special needs first faced emotional challenges yet eventually accepted their situation.
Conclusion / Contribution to the occupational therapy profession: They emphasized balancing responsibilities, finances and the need for support systems for themselves and campaigns to secure their child’s future.