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Why is there a saying “One word from father is worth three words from mother”? The role of the father in raising and teaching children.

People often believe that fathers have the role of earning money, while raising children is the job of mothers. However, experts emphasize the significant role that fathers play in raising children.

Administrator

24 February, 2024

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In a family, there is a father, a mother, and children who together form a perfect home. Raising children requires the cooperation of both the father and mother. However, many families believe that raising children is the responsibility of the mother, while the father is responsible for earning money.

Folklore has a saying, “One word from the father is worth three words from the mother.” That is because in the old days, when the father always played the role of a strong pillar in the family, his words held the most authority in the household. Babies are often favored by their mother. The mother is usually gentler and speaks less than the father. Therefore, when raising children, especially when they misbehave, the father’s words tend to be more overpowering than the mother’s.

However, applying that to the present day, it is no longer entirely true. But one fact remains: if the father actively communicates with the children and jointly raises them with his wife instead of being solely focused on making money, those children will be very happy and develop well.

Several studies by foreign scientists have shown that the role of the father in raising children is significant. Families in which the father actively plays with and educates their children will have healthier, smarter, and more emotionally stable children.

Many people believe that “men handle outside work, women take care of the family,” which makes many fathers think that raising children is the wife’s job. This leads to emotional harm or deficiencies in children’s psyches.

In the process of growing up, the father plays many roles that the mother cannot replace. A study from Harvard University found that children who play with their fathers more will be more intelligent. On the other hand, babies who lack the loving guidance from their fathers are often more shy and less sociable.

Children who live with both parents and have a close relationship with their father also tend to be healthier. A study in England with over 11,000 participants aged 50 found that those who frequently stayed with their fathers during childhood had a higher IQ. These individuals also had more social relationships. Daniel Nettle, a leading researcher, stated: “Data shows that having a second adult participate in childhood creates lifelong benefits in terms of skills and resilience for adults.”

A study conducted by researchers at the University of Pennsylvania in 2012 closely followed 200 families and found that children who played with their fathers more “may develop higher overall self-worth because their fathers surpass societal expectations to give all attention to their children.”

Meanwhile, fathers who bond with their children also tend to be more successful because they have higher goals and strive harder. A good father is also a source of pride for their children, so they strive to become an icon in their children’s eyes.

Therefore, fathers should join mothers in caring, playing, and educating their children.

Frequently asked questions

A father’s guidance is crucial in a child’s life as it sets an example of masculinity and provides a sense of security and discipline. Fathers also play a vital role in teaching their children about the outside world and how to navigate it successfully. Their words carry weight and often leave a lasting impression, hence the saying, ‘One word from a father is worth three words from a mother.’ This doesn’t undermine a mother’s role but rather highlights the unique impact a father can have on his children’s development and outlook.

A father’s active involvement in their child’s life contributes to the child’s overall well-being and social skills. Children with involved fathers tend to exhibit better behavior, higher self-esteem, and improved academic performance. Additionally, a father’s influence can shape their children’s future relationships, teaching them how to set boundaries, resolve conflicts, and develop healthy connections with others.

Fathers can teach and guide their children through various means, such as leading by example with their actions, spending quality time together, and engaging in open and honest conversations. They can also encourage their children to explore their interests and provide a supportive environment for learning and growth. Sharing their own experiences and offering advice in a calm and respectful manner can also leave a lasting impression on their children.

Fathers should strive to maintain a balance between discipline and love by setting clear rules and expectations while also expressing their love and affection. They can achieve this by being firm but fair, consistently enforcing consequences, and always communicating their decisions calmly and clearly. Showing their children that they are loved and valued, even when discipline is necessary, is essential.

Paternal absence or uninvolvement can have significant negative consequences on a child’s development. Children may struggle with self-esteem issues, exhibit behavioral problems, or face difficulties in forming secure attachments. They may also be at a higher risk of engaging in risky behaviors and underachieving academically. However, it’s important to note that a present but abusive or neglectful father can also have detrimental effects, so a positive and engaged presence is key.