Fatherhood as Professional Transition: Conceptualizing Patrescence in Nursing

Keywords

nurse-parent, nurse-father, patrescence, professional identity, dual role caregiver, double duty caregiver, unpaid caregiving, fatherhood, nurse well-being, professional quality of life, role conflict, role transition, parenting, developmental phase, concept analysis, walker and avant

Abstract

This concept analysis clarifies the meaning of patrescence in nursing, the developmental transition through which a male nurse becomes a father. Using Walker and Avant’s eight-step method, we identified defining attributes including: identity integration, relational reorientation, moral recalibration, temporal development, and work-life negotiation. We also explore antecedents, consequences, and empirical referents. Patrescence is presented as a moral and relational transformation linking personal fatherhood with professional caregiving identity. Understanding this process informs nursing theory, education, and organizational policy supporting nurse-fathers’ well-being and role integration.

Original Publication Citation

Watson, A. L., & **Detrick, R. (2026). Fatherhood as Professional Transition: Conceptualizing Patrescence in Nursing. Nursing Science Quarterly, 1-11. https://doi.org/10.1177/08943184261423773

Document Type

Peer-Reviewed Article

Publication Date

2026-03-11

Publisher

Nursing Science Quarterly

Language

English

College

Nursing

University Standing at Time of Publication

Assistant Professor

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