Fathers are Important

When it comes to parenting and nurturing a baby through childhood to adulthood, a special emphasis is often placed on the mother of the child. This makes perfect sense! The mother is the one that carries the baby for nine months and is the one that can breastfeed that baby after it is born. In addition to these scientific realities, mothers tend to be the ones that are nurturing, compassionate, and spend more time with the baby/child than anyone else. While all of these things remain true, the reality is that a father, and his involvement, is equally as important to the development and growth of a child. Though it may seem counterintuitive, the Review of General Psychology states, "Evidence suggests that the influence of father love on offspring's development is as great as and occasionally greater than the influence of mother's love." This reality in no way diminishes the role that the mother plays in her child's development. It simply shows that fathers have an enormous role to fill when it comes to being present and loving their children.

Studies have shown that children with involved fathers are at lower risks for: infant mortality, low birth weight, emotional and behavioral problems, neglect and abuse, teen pregnancy, incarceration as juveniles, and criminal activity. Clearly, children need their fathers to be involved and shape them as they mature and develop. As we celebrate Father's Day this month, make sure to encourage the fathers that are doing a great job of being present and involved with their kids. Often times, fathers do not realize the incredible impact that they have on their children and teens, so make sure to remind them! And if you are a father, or will become one some day in the future, never underestimate your influence on your children. All of the research and studies have shown that children with fathers who love them have significantly better health outcomes and have confidence as they grow into their teen years! To all the dads out there, keep up the great work!