A father's contribution should be recognized and acknowledged. But if fathers want that kind of acknowledgement, they might have to change a few of their ways. I've put together a list of what real fathers do. It's not comprehensive, but it's a start. Feel free to add your own suggestions to it.
Real fathers are very good to their children's mothers.
They respect them, they care about their needs and passions. They speak well of them in front of the children and others. Real fathers respect their children. Many men expect their children to respect them but don't realize that respect is a two-way street. It means honoring the physical and emotional beings that their children are.