Based on the traditions of role theory (Biddle and Thomas, 1979; Longres, 2000; Mead, 1934; Sarbin and Allen, 1954) and self-efficacy theory (Bandura, 1997), this study examined non-custodial fathers and their involvement with their child. Using a convenience sample (n = 72) recruited from men enrolled in the Erie Family Center for Child Development Fatherhood Initiatives Programs, survey participants completed a questionnaire designed to assess their level of self-efficacy, the co-parenting relationship with the custodial mother of their child, and their parenting satisfaction, each posited to be determinants of their paternal involvement. Path analysis was used to assess the effects of these relationships on paternal involvement. Moreover, this study tested the hypothesis that paternal involvement would co-vary with child custody status and marital status. Study results suggest parent satisfaction had the largest direct effect on paternal involvement while co-parenting relationships had the smallest effect on paternal involvement. Controlling for the effects of child custody status and marital status were not statistically significant. The magnitude of parent satisfaction and the minor effect of co-parenting relationship on paternal involvement may have been moderated by the non-custodial fathers' participation in fatherhood programs. Implications for social work practice and social welfare policy are discussed
