And another phenomenon, out of wedlock childbirth, produces another one-third of all children. Overwhelmingly, violent criminals are males who grew up without fathers. Sadly, these violent criminals are frequently fathers themselves and the cycle continues with their offspring. Children living with a mother and stepfather fared worse on most indicators. Fathers' Contributions to Child Development Fathers contribute to the well being and psychological and social development of their children in many ways.
Studies confirm that a father's contribution is essential and irreplaceable, as is the mother's.
Men and women parent differently. The parenting approaches are different. One approach is not better than the other. The rough and tumble play of a father and child teaches self-control rather than aggression. In particular, daughters who have physical play with their fathers are more self-confident and assured.