This may have more to do with fathers missing conversation opportunities or avoiding certain topics than with a lack of connection between dads and their kids. Below are some of the survey findings regarding dads. According to parents, fathers have a strong influence on how their kids think about these issues, albeit slightly less than the influence of mothers.
Kids say dads are a good, credible source of information on difficult issues.
A majority of kids ages 10 to 15 feel that their father has a good understanding of issues such as AIDS, violence, sex and alcohol, and rank their mothers' understanding just slightly higher than their fathers. While kids ages 10 to 15 say they are generally more able to talk to mom than dad when something is bothering them, many report they are equally comfortable talking with either parent about certain tough issues. Over a third say they are equally comfortable talking to mom or dad about AIDS, alcohol and drugs, and about how to handle violent situations. Regarding the issue of violence, many kids prefer to talk to their dads. On the topic of sex, more kids 10-15 prefer to talk to mom than dad.