This work reports on the experience of a cohort of low socio-economic status males who grew up during the economic reforms of the mid-1980s and 1990s. Seeing little future for themselves, they made minimal preparation for the demands of adult life, remaining instead on the margins of society. Fatherhood prompted them to re-script their self-assessment and their extra-marginal position. They rapidly adopted pro-social codes and committed themselves to their families’ wellbeing. That commitment was facilitated by the overt priority they were able to give to the emotional connection they had with their child/children. This reflects the change in paternal practices since the 1980s. Despite their commitment to their families, the work regimes available to participants were very demanding and their limited skill left them at high risk of unemployment. Government policies aimed at up-skilling this population would ensure they remain active members of the workforce. Such policies would also promote the stability of their family by reducing economic stress.

Keywords: Fatherhood, family life, employment/unemployment, margins, working class