According to the U.S. census bureau, 24 million children, 1 out of 3, live without their biological father in the home. Consequently, there is a father factor in nearly all social ills facing America today.
A father’s decision to be involved with and connected to his children (or not) dramatically impacts the child’s development, self-esteem, and decision-making for many years to come as illustrated by the below statistics:
When father is absent in the home:
- 7x more likely to become pregnant as a teen
- 2x more likely to drop out of high school
- 4x greater risk of poverty
- More likely to have behavioral problems
- More likely to commit a crime and go to prison
- More likely to face abuse and neglect
- 2x more likely to face obesity
- More likely to abuse drugs and alcohol
When father is positively present in the home:
- Infants score higher on tests of mental development
- Toddlers securely attached to fathers are better at solving problems
- Kids manage school stress better and exhibit less anxiety
- Girls whose fathers provide warmth and control achieve higher academic success
- Girls with doting fathers are more assertive
- A daughter’s self-esteem is best predicted by her father’s physical affection
- Fewer suicide attempts and fewer instances of body dissatisfaction, depression, low self-esteem, substance use, and unhealthy weight
What does this mean to you? If you are a man, then step up and be there for children. By nature, you are uniquely qualified to guide in ways that only you, as the father, can provide. If you do not have children look for opportunities to be a role model to children who may not have one. Your impact can be tremendous and life-changing. To all men, reach beyond your own selfish interests and prioritize the rearing of children in some form or fashion. It is the greatest work of which we can be a part and greatly contributes to the well being of society.
If you are a woman, let your man fulfill his role as Father in the home. Divorced families need this structure just as much, if not more. Have the father be as involved as he is willing to be. If you do not have a father in the household, then look for a positive male role model through other avenues such as church, sports, and other organizations.
This blog is about finding deeper peace, happiness, and fulfillment in life through simple insights and actions. Fatherhood is simple and deciding to be a good father is just as simple. Simple does not always mean convenient and easy. Fatherhood requires effort and sacrifice mixed with love and discipline. The blessings of such a decision are tremendous and grow with each year. Fathers…let’s make this coming year our best yet as we give more of who we are to those we love most.
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