Building Awareness: The Impact of Fatherlessness of the Mental Health of Adolescent Girls

Abstract

Fatherlessness is a multidimensional family experience that may influence adolescents’ emotional development, self-perception, and interpersonal relationships. This study aimed to explore the psychological experiences of adolescent girls experiencing fatherlessness and to identify the emotional and social challenges associated with paternal absence. This qualitative descriptive study involved five adolescent girls aged 14–18 years in Jatiasih, South Bekasi, Indonesia. Participants were selected purposively based on their experiences of paternal absence resulting from emotional unavailability, parental divorce, or paternal death. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, observation, and documentation and were analyzed descriptively through thematic analysis and triangulation. The findings indicated that fatherlessness was associated with difficulties in emotional regulation, reduced self-confidence, feelings of emptiness, jealousy toward peers with supportive father relationships, and challenges in developing trust and maintaining interpersonal relationships. However, participants also demonstrated different coping responses and obtained support from mothers, extended family members, friends, romantic partners, hobbies, and community environments. These findings indicate that the psychological consequences of fatherlessness are not uniform but are shaped by individual experiences and available social support. The study highlights the importance of counseling interventions that strengthen emotional regulation, self-worth, interpersonal trust, and supportive relationships among adolescent girls experiencing paternal absence. Keywords: adolescent girls, emotional regulation, fatherlessness, psychological well-being, social support