Abstract
The purpose of this study was to clarify the process of their adjustment leading to the performance of father's roles, and to carry out qualitative descriptive research aimed at discussing support for such fathers. Participants in this study were eight fathers of children with severe motor and intellectual disabilities (hereafter "severely disabled children") living at home. Fathers experienced "anguish that their child is disabled" but found their own way to "change their feelings by recognizing the reality" and made a fresh start toward life at home with the child. Thereafter, fathers commenced activities such as "creating a foundation in order to live with the severely disabled child," "supplementing child-rearing and housework for their wives," "serving as a shield for their wives," and "also valuing the severely-disabled child's siblings." In doing so, they "faced the real world by putting themselves back together, even as they struggled." This process led to fathers resolving to "do what can be done in the present." To support the performance of father's roles, it is necessary to provide a setting where fathers can express their emotions and to support their words and actions.
