Exploring The Effects of Diminished Paternal Authority on Social Competence of Adolescent Boys: A Case of Harambee Estate, Nairobi, Kenya

Abstract

This study explored the effects of diminished paternal authority on the social competence of boys aged 13–17 years in Harambee Estate, Nairobi County. The research addressed a significant knowledge gap by examining how changing family dynamics, urbanization, and shifting gender roles have weakened fathers’ traditional authority and the potential consequences for boys’ emotional and social development. The main purpose of the study was to investigate how diminished paternal authority affects boys’ emotional regulation, peer relationships, identity formation, and decision-making abilities which are key elements of social competence. The study employed a qualitative, phenomenological research design anchored in Bronfenbrenner’s Ecological Systems Theory and Pleck’s Father Involvement Theory. It engaged 30 purposively selected participants (ten fathers, ten mothers, and ten boys aged 13–17 years) living in Harambee Estate. Data was generated through in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, and researcher observations, then analysed thematically using Braun and Clarke’s framework. The findings indicated that unfathered boys (13%), under-fathered (67%) and mis-fathered boys (20%) experience greater struggles with identity formation, poor emotional regulation, and relationship management compared to their positively fathered peers (20%). The mis-fathered boys were observed to have a double burden and were therefore captured in the under-fathered category. Unfathered boys exhibited passivity and difficulty asserting themselves, often relying on peers or mothers for guidance. Under-fathered boys faced weak role modelling, as fathers prioritized provision over engagement, while mis-fathered boys were exposed to negative behaviours such as domestic violence, fuelling resentment and withdrawal. Collectively, these patterns undermined boys’ confidence, peer interaction, and conflict resolution skills. Fathered boys, on the other hand, showed resilience, stronger autonomy, and healthier emotional regulation, but their independence in decision-making was comparatively lower, since they still relied on their fathers for direction. The study recommended strengthening intentional fatherhood through community and policy interventions. Specific strategies include creating work-life balance initiatives that allow fathers more time with their children, expanding sports and mentorship programs to fill gaps in paternal involvement, and leveraging church-based initiatives such as Rites of Passage and “Man Enough” to support both fathers and boys. Policymakers and community organizations should be encouraged to design programs that increase fatherhood role and perception beyond provision to emphasize engagement, emotional support, and positive role modelling. The study also called for greater collaboration between families, schools, and community structures to create supportive environments for adolescent boys. The research ultimately highlighted the need for deliberate investment in paternal engagement as a pathway to strengthening boys’ social competence and shaping healthier, more resilient young men in rapidly evolving urban family contexts.