Teenage fathers are not well regarded in society and there is a dearth of research on this group both here and overseas, whereas research on teenage mothers is prolific. In addition the author suggests that much of the research that is available on this group is based upon assumptions which are open to challenge. Barnardos chose to publish this research in order to share more of what is known about teenage fathers and their potential to be effective loving parents. The adolescent fathers were recruited with the aid of guidance counselors at high schools in the North Island. Discourse analysis is used to explore and present the in-depth views of the 12 teenage boys about the experience and emotional impact of becoming fathers for the first time. Contrary to prevailing stereotypes the boys were found to have undergone a transformative experience and seek to create a better life for the child they have fathered. The young fathers have a strong sense of duty and responsibility towards their children and want them to avoid the mistakes they themselves have made. Mike Coleman of Barnardos contributes a chapter which considers policy implications arising from the research.

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