Fatherhood Facts
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, 17.8 million children, nearly 1 in 4, live without a biological, step, or adoptive father in the home.* That’s enough children to fill New York City twice or Los Angeles four times over. Research shows that a father's absence affects children in numerous unfortunate ways, while a father's presence makes a positive difference in the lives of both children and mothers.
*U.S. Census Bureau. (2023). Living arrangements of children under 18 years old: 1960 to present. Washington, D.C.: U.S. Census Bureau.
Positive Effects of fatherhood
1. Academic Achievement:
Children who have involved fathers tend to perform better academically. They are more likely to achieve higher grades and demonstrate better cognitive development. (Source: Sarkadi, A., Kristiansson, R., Oberklaid, F., & Bremberg, S. (2008). Fathers' involvement and children's developmental outcomes: A systematic review of longitudinal studies. Acta Paediatrica, 97(2), 153-158.)
2. Emotional Well-being:
Children with involved fathers often exhibit better emotional well-being, including higher self-esteem and a lower risk of developing mental health issues. (Source: Flouri, E., & Buchanan, A. (2004). The role of father involvement in children's later mental health. Journal of Adolescence, 27(5), 601-611.)
3. Social Development:
Positive father involvement is associated with better social skills and a lower likelihood of engaging in risky behaviors during adolescence. (Source: Amato, P. R., & Gilbreth, J. G. (1999). Nonresident fathers and children's well-being: A meta-analysis. Journal of Marriage and Family, 61(3), 557-573.)
4. Reduced Delinquency:
Adolescents with actively involved fathers are less likely to engage in delinquent behaviors and criminal activities. (Source: Flouri, E., & Buchanan, A. (2003). The role of father involvement in children's later delinquency. British Journal of Criminology, 43(2), 167-195.)
5. Positive Behavioral Outcomes:
Children who experience positive fatherhood involvement are more likely to exhibit prosocial behavior, cooperation, and better peer relationships. (Source: Carlson, M. J., & Magnuson, K. (2011). Low-income fathers' influence on children. The ANNALS of the American Academy of Political and Social Science, 635(1), 95-116.)
6. Educational Attainment:
Father involvement is positively correlated with higher educational attainment in children. Children with supportive fathers are more likely to pursue higher education. (Source: Nord, C., & West, J. (2001). Fathers' and mothers' involvement in their children's schools by family type and resident status. U.S. Department of Education, National Center for Education Statistics.)