Fathers play a primary role in the healthy development of their children. Love and support from both parents are crucial, but a father uniquely contributes to the intellectual, social, and emotional well-being of his child.
WHY FATHERHOOD MATTERS
Simply put, children need their fathers. The paternal bond is a lifelong relationship. But too many men have never known the love and support of their own father. Father absence creates a void that becomes a devastating inheritance for too many children – one in three – who grow up fatherless are fated to perpetuate the cycle.
- The sense of security and eagerness to explore is heightened in babies born to involved fathers.
- In early childhood, engaged fathers influence the development of self-esteem, risk-taking and cognitive functioning.
- Adolescents and teens are less likely to experience trouble with substance abuse and teen pregnancy and more likely to stay in school, go to college and excel in career and economic achievements.
- For young adults, the father-child relationship directly links to positive life outcomes including successful marriages and positive relationships with their own children.
Did you know?
Research shows that when fathers are involved, their children are more successful.
more likely to go to college
less likely to spend time in jail
less likely to experience teen pregnancy
A father's value is so much more than the financial support he brings to a family.
How can a man learn to be a father, especially if he’s never had a good father himself? Our local programs provide the coaching, instruction and emotional support that dads need. Fatherhood has benefits for dads, too:
- Engaged dads set goals and achieve greater success.
- Healthy habits become more important.
- Self-esteem increases as fathers see their value.
When a dad isn’t there, it’s a different picture.
Children in father-absent homes account for:
of all high school dropouts
of homeless and runaway children
of youth suicides
3200+ fathers participated in our programs last year and 7,300 children benefited from increased child support and father engagement.