Men are the providers, protectors, and quite frankly, the heads of the household. But, approximately 17.8 million children live in homes without the presence of an adoptive, step or biological father. Let's explore the benefits of having a "father figure" in the home.
Benefit #1: Lowers the risk of postpartum depression for mothers
Mothers need much support once the baby is here. Therefore, having fathers who are fully involved in the parenting relationship eases the stresses. Infants require much attention and frequent feeding, nurturing, and overall care.
Benefit #2: Improved school performance for their children
Benefit #3: Reduces the likelihood for children to live in poverty
Unfortunately, one of the results of single parenting is financial difficulties. Statistics show that Americans spend a vast amount of their income on housing, food and transportation. Per the 2022 Consumer Expenditures report, 33% of income is spent on housing, 16.8% on food and 12.8 on transportation. Additionally, 2022 Census data reported that the median household income for a family is $95, 450 versus $45,440 for a nonfamily household.
Benefit #4: Children will have higher emotional safety
Benefit #5: Provides a guide for how to develop relationships and overall character
Benefit #6: Improves the emotional foundation in marriage
Benefit #7: Model how to deal with varied social experiences
Focus on the Family states that fathers "tend to stress rules, justice, fairness, and duty in discipline"
Bonding with Dad
Kids Central suggests that fathers spend time with their children in order to formulate healthy bonds and strengthen their relationship. Below are some suggestions found on their website:
Research suggests that active pursuits like tossing the football, playing basketball, hiking or going to the library are more valuable than spending time in passive activities such as watching television.
Studies show benefits to participating in productive activities with children, such as household chores, washing dishes after dinner or cleaning up the backyard.
These types of shared activities promote a sense of responsibility and self-worth in children that is, in turn, linked to greater confidence, academic and career success, and mental well-being later in life.
Research also suggests that educational activities like reading to children helps to promote their intellectual growth.
Did you grow up with an involved father?
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