The concept of fatherlessness has emerged at the center of debates over welfare, poverty, sexuality, divorce, family values, and "racial disorder." Do children need fathers? Do mothers need husbands? Should we celebrate or grieve the loss (or transformation) of fatherhood? Is there a relation between "fatherlessness" and the destitution and crime of inner-city communities? Or is talk about "fatherlessness" simply a political diversion from the true sources of inequality and social disruption? This collection brings together the voices of nine highly diverse scholars to reflect on the…
Men often feel sidelined as their wives go through pregnancy, childbirth, and nursing. This book puts fathers right into the center of the action. It includes real-world tips from fathers on maintaining discipline, love, and an all-around positive influence; a men's guide to pregnancy and childbirth; practical advice for men about how to care for an infant; and moral support to help men become the best fathers they can be. (Author abstract modified)
The author of this chapter suggests that attempts to encourage fathers to remain with their families do not address the economic and social reality of low-income men and single parent families. The statistics about father absence fail to calculate the number of non-resident fathers who are involved with their children but do not provide financial assistance and do not consider that residence with an abusive father is more harmful than living in a single parent household. Furthermore, the public image of low-income single mothers depicts them as unwilling to work or supervise their children…
This chapter explores the loss that children feel when separated from their father by divorce or because their parents never married. Research has found that in most cases, visits are awkward for the child and his parents and contact between fathers and their children decreases over time. Children of divorce experience more negative outcomes than children whose fathers died because they tend to externalize, rather than internalize, their emotions. The degree of loss is not related to the quantity of time that children spend with their nonresident father or the amount of child support.…
This resource for early childhood programs describes strategies for involving men in the care and education of young children. Based on a study of exemplary programs, the text outlines a process that promotes systemic change by welcoming men, engaging them in the program, planning activities specifically for men, and encouraging continued participation. Program planners are advised to assess the needs of men, conduct outreach activities, and evaluate program achievement. Suggested projects include ice breakers, men's groups, parenting skill training, family events, and recognition programs.…
