An exploratory path analysis of the factors contributing to life satisfaction in fathers

The purpose of this study was to present and test a model to examine those factors contributing to life satisfaction in fathers. A total of 268 fathers participated in this study. Path analysis was used to examine the direct and indirect influences of independent variables on life satisfaction in fathers. Results indicated that income and perceived family cohesiveness were the strongest variables in the model. Family cohesiveness mediated the effects of income, male role norms, conflict, and father involvement on life satisfaction. Income had the greatest total effect on life satisfaction. Perceived family cohesiveness and fathers' education level followed income as the second and third most influential effects on life satisfaction. Results are discussed in light of the existing literature on family resilience, male role norms, and life satisfaction.