Types of Relationships for Fathers & Sons

Fathers and sons share different types of relationships, depending on the people involved, the family dynamic, familial situations and many other factors. The encouragement to be openly close is not as strong for men and boys as it is for girls and women, and fathers and sons may often appear less connected than mothers and daughters. For some, this may be true; for others, their connection may simply be more subtle.

  1. Fun and Games

    • Playing basketball together can help fathers and sons bond.

      Male friends often bond over athletics and other physical activities. For a father and son, that bond can be quite similar, with additional camaraderie that comes from being family. This gives them things to do together, passions to share and highs and lows to experience as father and son. The drama of sports can make this father-son connection quite deep as they cheer on their favorite teams together.

    Guy Stuff

    • Sharing an activity such as fishing can help father and son bond.

      Fathers and mothers are equally important to their children, but that doesn't make them the same. For some fathers and sons, the "guy stuff" they do -- such as camping, fishing, working on a car and building things -- is part of the core of a strong relationship. It's not just about the activities. It's also the side-by-side intimacy of participating in them together, the teaching of skills and the nurturing of pride.

    Sharing Feelings

    • Sons enjoy hugs and kisses from their fathers.

      Relationships between fathers and sons have grown closer over time as boys and men have received more freedom and encouragement to express themselves. Psychologist Mark O'Connell, in his book "The Food Father: On Men, Masculinity, and Life in the Family," argues that neither the "sensitive men" nor the "real man" concepts represents a complete man. Men can be masculine while still showing love and tenderness toward their sons.

    Communication and Trust

    • Friendly talks between father and son help communication thrive.

      Communication in an atmosphere of trust and respect can create a lifelong bond for father and son. They can exchange ideas, philosophies and opinions, and the more the father is accepting of his son's thoughts, the more likely the son will be to keep talking. While parents need to teach their sons and daughters, they can also learn from their children. Youthful ideas combined with the wisdom of experience can lead to great things.

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