A report released today by Maxim Institute finds that a father's direct and sustained involvement can have unique and valuable effects on his children.

With confused and conflicting expectations of fathers, this research shows just how imperative it is that we change our culture to more actively encourage and value fatherhood. This research has wide-reaching and important implications for New Zealand, in areas of law, policy and media. Most importantly, the report highlights that: "Fathers should be greatly encouraged about the real difference they can make in their children's lives and the vital role they can play if they are involved in the right way."

The report Going Further With Fathers: Can fathers make unique contributions to the lives of their children? is primarily a literature review of relevant research into the possible effects fathers can have on child well-being. The research shows that fathers' mere presence is not enough; fathers need to be actively involved in their children's lives to make a real difference.

An actively involved father can have positive effects on a child's behaviour, emotional security, educational achievement and their development of social skills.

For example, the report explains that: "When fathers are supportive, involved and close to their children, there is a positive and unique association with their children's happiness, attachment, self-esteem and perceptions of self-competence."

The research reveals that the effect of father involvement is separate and unique to the effect of mother involvement. While mothers and fathers can both make separate unique contributions to their children, their combined involvement also provides an additional joint effect.

The report points out, "Conceptions of fatherhood have changed in Western societies in recent decades. In some cases this has meant expectations of fathers are unclear, creating tensions for men."

"This report should be a wake-up call for some fathers, who need to step up and take their job seriously. Businesses should consider flexible working arrangements so that fathers can spend time with their children. The media needs to recognise its social responsibility to portray balanced father role models. The Family Court should also consider the benefits of positive father involvement when making parenting arrangements. Those providing services to families need to do a better job of treating the father as a parent in his own right, not simply as a support person for the mother," says Daniel Lees, Maxim Institute Researcher.

"We also need to do a better job of recognising the need for strong long-term relationships. These allow a child to experience not just the unique contributions from their mother and father, but also the added joint effect of them parenting together. Long-term relationships also make it easier for fathers to be involved with their children," says Daniel Lees.

ENDS

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