Paternal absence in childhood: Experiences of people with mental illnesses

Abstract

The objective of the research was to understand the phenomena that emerged from the experiences of paternal absence during childhood in adults with mental illnesses. This qualitative research was conducted through semi-structured interviews conducted with men and women. The results are grouped into six categories that emerged from the analysis: the universe of absence, fear and uncertainty, representation and idealization of the father, sadness and loneliness, stigma and difference and the icon that is the substitute. Based on the results of the study, the absence of the father in childhood for people with mental illness contributes to feelings of depression, stigmatization, loneliness and lack of protection and are associated with painful experiences that require improved comprehension and a therapeutic approach.