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Fatherhood
It takes a man to be a father
Fatherhood requires an active commitment from men. Fathers need to provide consistent love and stability, financial support, and moral and spiritual guidance.
Fathers are diverse
They come in all sizes, shapes and colors, with different backgrounds, different ideas, and different ways of relating to their children.
Anyone can be a good father
While each father may have his own style of parenting, common characteristics of a successful father are:
- being involved in the day-to-day lives of his child(ren),
- unwavering love shown by words and physical action,
- providing financial, emotional, mental, physical, social and spiritual support,
- establishing consistency in their children's lives.
Committed fathers are more likely to raise healthy, successful children
When fathers are consistently present in their child's life, the positive benefits in the child's development and socialization are immense. Such children are more likely to:
- be healthier and more well adjusted,
- develop a positive self esteem,
- establish moral standards, and
- do well in school and in dealing with others.
Absent fathers hurt children
When fathers are absent from their child's life, the cost is high. Studies reveal that, with the lack of fathers' involvement, children are more likely to suffer the following consequences:
- dropping out of school,
- drug and alcohol abuse,
- teen pregnancy,
- involvement in crime and violence, and
- living below the poverty line.
Fatherhood is rewarding
Raising children is often the most enjoyable and meaningful experience of a man's life. Research has shown that men who are actively involved with their families are happier, physically healthier, and less likely to suffer from depression.
Excerpted from Becoming a Father by Stanley Seiderman, Prevent Child Abuse America Publications 1999 p.6
Excerpted from Fatherhood by Wayne Matthews, Department of Family and Consumer Sciences, North Carolina, 1998. Retrieve May 2007
For more information on fatherhood go to National Fatherhood Initiative (off-site link; use back button to return).