The Science Behind the ‘Father Effect’

While studies about motherhood have dominated parenting-related research in the past, scientists are now realizing just how important it is for children to have an engaged father figure in their life. Academic journals publish new findings nearly every day that illustrate the profound effect fathers can have on their children, for better or worse.  

It all begins before the baby is even born. Future fathers who attend birthing classes with their partners and involve themselves in the labor process tend to develop a stronger attachment to their child. Evidence also suggests that dads who build an early relationship with their baby are more likely to remain involved in the child’s life as the years go by. And, as numerous studies have shown, more paternal involvement means a better outcome for the kids.  

This is called the “Father Effect.” Here’s how it works. 

What it Means to be an Engaged Father 

Most parents want healthy, well-balanced children. To increase the likelihood of this, focus on being a good dad. This means: 

• Living with your kids in the family home (or remaining in contact via phone calls and letters if you’re divorced, deployed, or incarcerated) 
• Reading to your children and putting them to bed 
• Attending your children’s important events 
• Giving birthday gifts and other financial support 
• Offering compliments and praise 
• Helping with homework 
• Meeting and interacting positively with your kids’ friends 
• Offering fatherly advice 
• Spending quality, meaningful time together (not just watching TV) 

Outcomes of the Father Effect 

Consider the many ways being a supportive dad can benefit your children: 

• Higher IQ: Infants and toddlers tend to have stronger cognitive development if their fathers play an active role in their lives from birth. The highest IQs are found in children where both parents are engaged. 
• Better social skills: Kids—sons in particular—tend to be more popular in preschool and have an easier time forging healthy relationships as they mature when they grow up with their father around. 
• Less risky sexual behavior: When kids hit puberty, their dad becomes the arbiter of sexual behavior. Teenagers—daughters in particular—take fewer sexual risks if they have a strong relationship with their father. 
• Fewer emotional and behavioral problems: Engaged dads increase the likelihood that their children will stay in school and avoid behaviors that could land them in jail. 
• Well-adjusted adults: Kids grow up to have higher-paying jobs and healthier, stabler relationships when their fathers are around to help raise them. 

Are you ready to be an involved father? If you had a vasectomy in the past, you might assume the opportunity has passed. However, thanks to advanced vasectomy reversal options, it’s not too late to become a dad! Under the direction of Dr. Joshua Green, you can reverse your vasectomy using a state-of-the-art procedure available at the Center for Vasectomy Reversal in Sarasota, FL. When you’re ready to learn more, please call us at 941.894.6428 for a free consultation.