| The purpose of this qualitative phenomenological study was to collect the perceptions and lived experiences of U.S. Army soldiers who pay child support and have rights to visitation with their noncustodial children. Participants included 20 soldiers stationed at Fort Sill, Oklahoma. Soldiers completed a written 21-question assessment, verbally responded to a participant data worksheet, and a 24-question interview protocol. Participant responses were organized into three central child support themes---financial, emotional, and physical care concerning child support---and five supporting themes---child support calculator, rank, legal assistance, barracks, and visitation. Demographic data revealed the support-paying parent was male in every instance. The average difference in age between father and mother was 2 years. Results indicated male noncustodial soldiers in grades E-1 to E-5 experienced more child support hurdles than soldiers in higher grades. Participants expressed an extreme desire to care for their children. Participants agreed children experience a healthier life if both parents are financially, emotionally, and physically involved. Sample results include useful support based resources and leaders who provide personal guidance and direction. A soldier's financial income is a guarantee, while little data exists as how to increase emotional and physical support. Child support consists of three pillars: financial, emotional, and physical. This structure requires effort from both parents to achieve the maintenance of a child's healthy lifestyle. A child support paradigm will become weak and dysfunctional if two of the three pillars are weak or nonexistent. |
