The current understanding for the role of fatherhood is complex, influenced by sociocultural factors and theoretical frameworks. Disparities in childcare and housework between the parental dyad persist, with mothers often seen as the expert parent. Spousal support—the ways fathers are supported and encouraged to participate in child-rearing—significantly influences father involvement. However, the way that fathers perceive and interpret spousal support may result in the reduction of father-child engagement. This study employs the interpretative phenomenological analysis method to explore the lived experience of five first-time fathers who describe their understanding of spousal support. The findings illustrate several distinct themes of meaning making that fathers engage in when encountering spousal support. These themes include evaluating spousal support dependability, role engagement and development, and the mediation of relief from emotional burdens. This study informs the current understanding of how fathers understand and engage with support that is offered by their spouses.
