Fathers, Adolescent Sons and the Fly-in/fly-out Lifestyle

The effects of Fly-in/fly-out (FIFO) employment on the relationships between adolescent boys and their fathers are poorly understood. Using a phenomenological methodology, this study investigated the experiences of male adolescents whose fathers have FIFO employment. In-depth interviews were conducted with 8 male adolescents to understand how the FIFO lifestyle influences their lives and relationships. Analysis identified two main themes of (1) opportunities afforded by the lifestyle and (2) family relationships. Adolescents reported lifestyle benefits associated with their father working FIFO, described how they maintained father son connections and how FIFO impacted on their family. Further research into the long term impacts of FIFO employment on adolescent development is indicated.