It’s hard to overestimate the importance of fathers in the lives of their children.
Kids with caring dads achieve better academically in school, have fewer behavioral problems, are less likely to use drugs or smoke, commit fewer crimes and attempt suicide less frequently.
The expectations for being a good dad are different today from previous generations.
Men are expected to provide financially for their families, as well as help out around the house and be actively involved with their kids.
According to a 2007 Pew Research Center study, 59 percent of men and 62 percent of women reported it is tougher being a dad today than it was 20 to 30 years ago.
How are dads doing with these new and challenging responsibilities? Well, it depends whom you ask. Only 15 percent of men feel they are doing a better job than dads of previous generations.
Working moms have a much more positive view of their husbands. Seventy-two percent of working moms who are raising young children feel their husbands are doing a good or better job than fathers of past generations.
In this world of changing and increasing expectations for the role of men in families, how can dads survive and enjoy parenthood?
Read more at The Detroit News
