The Nature and Importance of the Father-Infant Relationship

Abstract

The authors discuss several studies which invalidate the common presumption that fathers play an insignificant role in the sociopersonality development of their infant children. It is shown that fathers are extremely salient individuals in the lives of their children, particularly their sons. Fathers may play an important role in the adoption of cultural mores and sex-typed behavior. The social and practical implications of these findings, and their relevance to family practitioners, are stressed.