Fatherhood Styles

Fathers are an important part of a child's life. Dr. David Popenoe, a noted sociologist, states that fathers have a direct impact on the well-being of their children. A number of studies have shown a correlation between caring fathers and higher IQs in children. Children with involved fathers are more patient and likely to succeed, both socially and academically. A father can be involved in his child's life in a variety of ways that take their cue from the animal kingdom.

  1. Lion

    • A lion father is highly involved in his child's life.

      Lion fathers are loving and proud. Lion fathers are likely to be disciplinarians in the home and use a firm but affectionate approach. The lion father will be involved in his child's after-school activities, maybe even coaching the soccer team instead of standing on the sidelines. Lion fathers are the ones videotaping every school play and cheering the loudest when their children cross the stage on graduation day.

    Wolf

    • Wolf fathers take on a lot of parenting responsibility.

      Wolf fathers are involved in the day-to-day care of their children. This type of father sees parenting as a two-person job and shares the responsibilities of child care and rearing equally with his partner. Wolf fathers are protective (maybe overprotective) of their children. However, they will advocate for the best possible education and opportunities for their children. Many stay-at-home dads would be considered wolf fathers.

    Monkey

    • Monkey dads like to have a good time.

      Monkey fathers want life to be fun and games. They are the fathers who roll around and wrestle on the floor with the children while mom cleans up and makes dinner. This type of father will help with parental responsibilities as long as it is the fun stuff - don't expect a monkey dad to change too many dirty diapers. Monkey fathers love doing things together and will be the first to organize a family game night or trip.

    Bison

    • A bison dad is strict but caring.

      A bison father, like a lion, is the disciplinarian in the family. He maintains order and keeps the family running smoothly. A bison father might seem cold and distant, but underneath his stern exterior is a heart full of love for his children. This type of father will make sure the kids have brushed their teeth before bedtime and sign their permission slips and homework papers as soon as the kids get home from school.

    Bear

    • Bear fathers are less involved but still loving.

      A bear father is the breadwinner of his family. His wife might be a stay-at-home mom or only work part-time, so she does most of the child rearing. A bear father is very protective of his children and family, although he is less involved in their day-to-day lives than a lion father. Bear fathers will provide financially for their children but may be somewhat distant emotionally.

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