As a father, you know that you may have to face some forms of bias when you seek custody of your children. While it isn’t fair, women are still made out to be better caregivers.
Bias shouldn’t have a place in your case, and your attorney will do all they can to make sure you’re not facing bias from the judge or others. However, having some helpful evidence on your side is a good choice.
For example, did you know that children who are involved with their fathers are less likely to drop out of school or break the law? These same children are also more likely to avoid risky behaviors while being encouraged to go on to work in high-paying jobs and to pursue healthy relationships with their loved ones. There are scientific reasons for fathers being in their children’s lives. They’re called “The Father Effect,” and they have a significant impact on the lives of youth.
How does The Father Effect change children’s lives?
Fathers who participate actively in their children’s lives give the children stability. Before their birth, even, a man has an affect on children. Their DNA, what they eat and their stress levels can affect pregnancy outcomes. Early participation in a child’s life also helps encourage bonding and attachment between the father and child.
In life, children want to be loved and appreciated. They want to know that people think about them and support them. That’s where an active parenting role comes in. Fathers who write letters or spend time on the phone with their children show that they care. While child support is for the financial support of your child, your time and effort is the emotional support.
The kind of time you spend together does matter, of course. Fathers who are abusive, aggressive or negative are more likely to have children with negative outcomes. As such, it’s necessary to have a high-quality parenting experience, which means positive encouragement, positive interactions and support. It has been pointed out in research that fathers who participate in their children’s early lives often lead to the children having higher cognitive scores at the age of one.
Fathers also provide unique benefits. For example, studies have shown that dads are better at teaching swimming (and potentially other risky activities) since they’re less protective of their children and more likely to allow them to do more on their own.
These are facts to keep in mind. Being a father is an important role that should not be understated.