Dear Postgraduate Students, 

My name is Lindokuhle Mbatha, and I am currently registered for the Masters program in Clinical Psychology at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, Howard Campus. 

You are invited to participate anonymously in a research study that aims to investigate paternal involvement and its long-term effects on psychological distress and self-esteem among young adults. Most research on parenting in South Africa focuses on mothers or caregivers. Little is known about how young adults in South Africa perceive their fathers’ involvement, and how these relationships may influence their mental health and self-image today. This study aims to fill that gap by focusing on your voice and your lived experience.

The online survey should take approximately 15-20 minutes to complete. Participation is completely voluntary. The survey questionnaire is designed to uphold strict confidentiality and anonymity. No personally identifiable information will be collected at any stage.

Research participation criteria: 

• Between the ages of 20 and 35 years.
• Registered postgraduate student in the College of Humanities, UKZN.
• Had a father or father figure present during your childhood and adolescent years.    

To complete the online survey, kindly click on this link: http://qualtricsxm9gf5r7vht.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_2uDIatQUfP3YFBI

If you have any questions or queries, please email me on: 218048974@stu.ukzn.ac.za or lindombatha000@gmail.com

This study has been ethically reviewed and approved by the UKZN Humanities and Social Science Research and Ethics Committee as per Protocol Number: HSSREC/00008568/2025. 

Kindly find attached the gatekeeper's permission letter, ethical clearance letter, and the information sheet. 

Your participation will be greatly appreciated.

Sincerely, 

Lindokuhle Mbatha