Dads are key to kids learning persistence

pic

Dads are in a unique position as authoritative parents to teach their adolescent children persistence.

“In our research we ask ‘Can your child stick with a task? Can they finish a project? Can they make a goal and complete it?’ Learning to stick with it sets a foundation for kids to flourish and to cope with the stress and pressures of life,” said Randal Day, Brigham Young University professor.

Persistence leads to less delinquency

The researchers found that through time, the persistence learned through fathers resulted in lower delinquency rates and greater engagement in school. “There are relatively few studies that highlight the unique role of fathers. This research also helps to establish that traits such as persistence – which can be taught – are key to a child’s life success,” added Professor Laura Padilla-Walker also of BYU.

Father as loving authority is key

They found that authoritarian fathers had the most success. An authoritative father establishes himself as a person the child will respect and he responds to his child’s needs. The dad does this while maintaining a nurturing home in which the child feels safe to make mistakes and question rules. The key is for the father to be the authority, but also respond to children with understanding and some flexibility.

The key is for children to feel their father’s love while also being held accountable and achieving an understanding of rules. In doing so, a child feels comfortable exercising his autonomy. This leads to greater persistence and lower delinquency.

Even separated fathers can achieve results

“Fathers should continue to try and be involved in their children’s lives and engage in high quality interactions, even if the quantity of those interactions might be lower than is desirable,” concluded Padilla-Walker.

Source: MedicalNewsToday, Journal of Early Adolescence


disclaimer

This information is solely for informational and educational purposes only. The publication of this information does not constitute the practice of medicine, family planning, child psychology, marriage counseling and this information does not replace the advice of your physician or other health care or mental health care provider. Neither the owners or employees of NaturalFamilyOnline.com or the author(s) of site content take responsibility for any possible consequences from any treatment, procedure, exercise, dietary modification, application of medication or any other action involving the care of yourself or any family members which results from reading this site. It is always best to speak with your primary health care provider before engaging in any form of self treatment. Additional information contained in our Legal Statement

Poll
What does your weekly dinner look like?
The whole family dines together at home
63%
The whole family dines together at a restaurant
1%
Parents and children eat separately
4%
Whoever is around eats together
21%
Every family member for themselves!
11%
Total votes: 5755