Fatherhood is unique and irreplaceable, Horn says. Fathers are different than moms, and they tend to approach their world differently. From studies, we know that fathers tend to be more physical in their interaction with kids, mothers more verbal. This teaches them self-regulation. If kids get too aggressive, we say, Hey, shut it down or we ll stop.
Fathers encourage risk-taking and independence.
Mothers are more cautious and focus on affiliation with family. This doesn t mean that we should separate out men and women to have specialized roles, but what moms and dads bring to the parenting equation is unique and complementary. We need to say to men, What you do as a father is critical to the well-being of your kid. More men seem to be listening. Levine quoted a 1996 Consumer Survey Center poll of men in their 30s and 40s done for Levi Strauss and Co. that found 84 percent of baby-boomer men equate success with being a good father.