According to the U.S. Census Bureau, one out of three children in America lives in biological father-absent homes.
Infant mortality rates are almost 2 times higher for infants of unmarried mothers compared to married mothers.
A study of nearly 6,000 children found that children from single parent homes had more physical and mental health problems than children who lived with married parents.
Fathers are diverse. They come in all sizes, shapes, and colors, with different backgrounds, ideas, world-views, hopes for their children, and ways of connecting with their children.
You are likely to view your role as a father based on one or more of these factors:
- Your personal experience and relationship with your father
- Your perception of what a father ought to be
- Your spouse’s perception of fathering responsibilities
- The portrayal of fathers in the media and entertainment industries
- The influence of public perception of your role
Some Negative Effects of Being an Absent Father
- 20-30% higher probability of accidents, injuries and poisonings occurring
- Increased chances of cognitive developmental delays
- Children in father-absent homes are five times more likely to be poor
- Infants are more likely to have a lower birth weight
- The risk of infant mortality is almost twice as high
Benefits of Being an Involved Father
- Fathers’ knowledge about breastfeeding increases the likelihood that a child will be breastfed.
- Mothers experience less depression when they have a supportive partner.
- When children become teens, they have a lower occurrence of psychological distress and engaging in risky behaviors such as smoking, drugs and stealing.
- Children that spend more time playing with their fathers have better cognitive outcomes, as they benefit from both the mother and the father’s play styles.
- Children are more likely to be successful in school and careers.
- Children who grow up with involved fathers are more likely to take an active, positive role in raising their own kids.
- Fathers feel more confident in their life and job.
SIX CHARACTERISTICS OF A GOOD FATHER
Good fathering is hard work, but the most important job a man can have. To be a good father, it is important that you have these characteristic
For More Information Visit
Fathers Connection
http://www.fathersconnection.org/
Mr. Dad
http://www.mrdad.com/
National Responsible Fatherhood Clearing House
http://www.fatherhood.gov/
Fathers.com
http://fathers.com/