International Adoption
The blessing of Fathers
In America today, approximately 34% of American children live without their father. In his book Standing Firm, former Vice President Dan Quayle wrote, “A society that promotes the idea that a father’s role is irrelevant breeds irresponsibility.”
Fathers uphold the very order and structure of the family.
Research shows the importance of good fathers in the lives of children, and has documented the positive effects of involved fathers:
The National Center for Educational Statistics reported that when fathers are involved in their children’s education, the children are more likely to get As, enjoy school, and participate in extracurricular activities.
Children with engaged fathers demonstrate “a greater ability to take initiative and evidence self-control.”
When boys with involved fathers grow up, they are more likely to be good dads themselves.
When fathers are not present:
Their children have a higher rate of asthma, headaches, anxiety, depression, and behavioral problems.
Teenagers are at greater risk of alcohol, tobacco, and illicit drug use, and suicide.
Adolescent girls are 3 times more likely to engage in sexual relations by the time they turn 15, and 5 times more likely to become a teen mother.
A Harvard University study states that children with involved fathers are:
more confident and less anxious when placed in unfamiliar settings.
better able to deal with frustration.
better able to adapt to changing circumstances and breaks from their routine.
better able to gain a sense of independence outside the mother/child relationship.
more likely to mature into compassionate adults.
more likely to have higher self-esteems and grade point averages.
more sociable.
