EP 223: The Emotional Impact of Family Separation on Fathers: A Deep Dive Into Men’s Mental Health Featuring Ben Hine

In this powerful and eye-opening conversation, David Chambers speaks with Professor Ben Hine—psychologist and researcher at the University of West London—about the deep emotional toll family breakdowns have on fathers. From the overlooked role of dads in the family court system to the systemic biases men face during separation and divorce, this episode uncovers the hidden truths about fatherhood, emotional well-being, and societal expectations. If you're a father, know a father, or work with families, this is a conversation you don't want to miss. We explore mental health, parental alienation, masculinity, child attachment, and the impact of societal and cultural stereotypes on men's lived experiences. Ben received his BSc and PhD from Royal Holloway, University of London in 2010, focusing on the gender-typing of prosocial behavior in youth. Since 2014 at the University of West London, his work in applied gender and forensic psychology has grown. He has investigated gender in the criminal justice system, including rape myth impact on case progression (with MOPAC), and collaborated with SafeLives and The Mankind Initiative on domestic violence victim needs, including LGBTQIA+ and male survivors.  More recently, he explores post-separation abuse, particularly Parental Alienation, a professional interest stemming from his own parents' divorce in 2020. This personal experience has led to collaborations with various charities, organizations, and parents, as well as reflective writing on family breakdown, abuse, PA, and family court involvement.   KEY TOPICS:   ⭐ Why Are Fathers Marginalised in Custody And Court Systems ⭐ Emotional Fallout From Family Breakdown For Separated Fathers ⭐ The Stereotypes Of The Absent Or Unnecessary Father ⭐ Biological And Neurological Changes In Active Fatherhood ⭐ How Prejudice And Bias Shape Legal Outcomes ⭐ Weaponising Allegations Against Fathers In Family Court ⭐ Children’s Long-Term Psychological Impact From Parental Alienation ⭐ The Empathy Gap Toward Men’s Emotional Experiences ⭐ Why School Systems Fail To Support Boys Equally ⭐ Class, Culture, And Race In Fatherhood Stereotypes ⭐ Challenging The Traditional Masculinity Through Vulnerability And Involvement ⭐ Reframing Men’s Issues As Human, Not Just Gendered Problems   Connect With David - The Authentic Man:   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theauthenticman_/  Website: https://www.theauthenticman.net/  For Coaching: hello@theauthenticman.net  Newsletter: https://www.theauthenticman.net/home-subscribe    Connect With Ben Hine:    Separating Better App by OnePlusOne -https://www.oneplusone.org.uk/news/separating-better-the-story-so-far