Children whose fathers were actively involved with them during the first eight weeks of life managed stress better as school-agers. Premature infants whose fathers spent more time playing with them had better mental outcomes at age 3, whether their father resided in the same house or not. Sons of nurturant fathers are more likely to model them and internalize their modes of thinking and problem-solving. A father's level of education and success on the job is linked with children's intellectual abilities. The economic support of the family, provided mostly by the father's income in two parent families, contributes to the rearing and emotional health of their children.
Fathers play a major role in preparing children for life outside the family.
Father's level of education and success on the job is linked with children's intellectual abilities. Children of highly involved fathers have fewer psychological and behavioral problems, are less likely to become delinquent, and are less likely to use drugs. Children who receive advise and help from parents, especially from Dad, are likely never to use drugs. In two-parent families, father involvement also positively influences marriages. Mothers are happier and treat their children better.