Why are dads important?
More and more researchers are finding that fathers provide something
special in their children’s lives. For example, recent studies
have found:
-
Children
whose dads are involved in school do better in school and earn
higher
wages later.
-
Girls
with dads who are close to them are less likely to become sexually
active early.
-
Even when
dads can’t afford to pay child support, being involved
in their kids’ lives has a positive effect on their kids.
Where can I find out more about how dads make a difference?
How
can I be a great father?
What
are some other sources of information and support for dads?
- US Department
of Health and Human Services Fatherhood
Initiative strives to support and strengthen the roles
of fathers in families.
- The National Fatherhood Initiative is working
to increase the proportion of children growing up with
involved, responsible, and committed fathers.
- The Fathers
Network advocates for and provides resources
and support to all men who have children with special needs
- At-Home Dad is a forum for fathers who stay home
with their children. Through
the website you can find local playgoups, network with
other at-home dads on the message board, or read the
newsletter.
- Fathers' Forum offers
new and expectant dads a chance to explore the many facets
of being a parent. Call 510-644-0300.
- Partnership
for Dads is a Michigan nonprofit organization
that works to help fathers become more involved parents. They
run programs for new dads, at-home dads, and to
encourage fathers’ involvement in schools. Partnership
for Dads also makes speakers available and publishes educational
materials.
Still have questions about this topic? Go to
our survey to ask your questions, and we’ll try
to answer them on an upcoming
YourChild podcast.
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References:
Hudson DB, Campbell-Grossman C, Fleck MO, Elek SM, Shipman A.
Effects of the New Fathers Network on first-time fathers' parenting
self-efficacy and parenting satisfaction during the transition
to parenthood. Issues in Comprehensive Pediatric Nursing. 2003;26:217-229.
Population Reference Bureau for the Demographic and Behavioral
Sciences Branch, Center for Population Research, National Institute
of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), Research on today’s
issues: Improving children’s well-being: Understanding, nurturing
fatherhood. Issue 9, October 1998. Available at URL: http://www.nichd.nih.gov/about/cpr/dbs/pubs/ti9.pdf. Accessed
7 February 2005.
Compiled by Kyla Boyse, R. N. Reviewed by faculty and staff at
the University of Michigan
Updated October 2007
U-M Health System Related Sites:
U-M Pediatrics
Our editorial policy
The information and links we provide are reviewed by University of Michigan developmental and behavioral pediatricians and child psychologists who are experts in child behavioral health. In choosing the links we provide, we use strict criteria to ensure that the information is accurate, and the source is reputable. As much as possible, we focus on information that is based on research. In areas where there is inadequate research, we include information compatible with prevailing expert opinion.
This website is updated regularly, but because of the dynamic nature of the Internet, we cannot be responsible for misinformation that may be accessed through the links provided. As always, this website is not a tool for self-diagnosis, and is not a substitute for professional care.
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