Over the last few decades, the important role a father plays in the upbringing of a child is becoming more and more recognized. By our very nature, humans are social, and the relationship a child has, especially during their early impressionable years, can have a profound impact on a child.
According to a study by the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, a child’s character can be significantly impacted depending upon the relationship and bond they have with their fathers. When girls have a strong bond with their fathers who are loving and gentle, as they grow into adults they will look for the same characteristics in other men. Boys are more likely to become like their father, trying to emulate and imitate the characteristics of their fathers.
A study by the National Responsible Fatherhood Clearinghouse shows that the mere presence of a father in a child’s life leads to better behavior and academic performances in a child, including stronger verbal and math skills.
With more and more women maintaining a career in the workplace in Dallas, Texas, and throughout the United States, more and more fathers are becoming “stay-at-home” dads. This is a significant change from the traditional gender roles from previous decades. The courts have also recognized these changes and understand that fathers can also be primary caretakers and can also be awarded custodial rights when a family is in the process of a divorce. The importance of protecting a fathers’ rights in the courtroom remains significant. For fathers in the process of a divorce, these rights can be further protected by entering the courts with a strong legal team at their side.
Source: Huffington Post, “The Important Role of Dad,” By Dr. Gail Gross, June 12, 2014