When parents decide to terminate their marriage, there are a host of issues that must be negotiated in the divorce settlement. Parents must determine whether sole or joint custody is best for the child, and create a parenting plan that works in the best interests of the child. In families where one parent lives a significant distance away or where the child attends school, one parent is often awarded sole-physical custody of the child. As parents make these crucial decisions regarding their children, it is crucial to keep in mind the absolute importance that fathers have in a child’s life.
In homes where children do not interact with their fathers on a regular basis, kids may struggle academically as well as socially. They may have trouble earning good grades, trying new things and making new friends. Studies show that children who have regular interactions with their fathers are more emotionally secure, able to explore their surroundings and confident in new situations. Ultimately, children who are with their fathers are less impulsive, less aggressive and generally more dedicated.
Researchers explain how both the father and the mother each bring unique traits into a child’s life, and that children require both of these roles in order to be fully stable. While fathers encourage self-achievement, independence and competition, mothers bring security, comfort and collaboration. Fathers discipline, protect and encourage risk in their children, which is essential in a child’s upbringing. Although joint-custody is thought to be best overall for a child’s development, having as much time as possible with both parents is truly important.
