Impact on Boys: Boys tend to be more rational and action-oriented than girls. Therefore, a father's involvement in raising a boy greatly benefits the development of good behavioral habits and the cultivation of independence. Fathers typically focus more on outdoor activities. Their companionship helps burn off excess energy in boys, reducing destructive behavior.
A father's distinct style of companionship offers children a different perspective on life, exposing them to experiences beyond those shared with their mother. This is crucial for the developing brain. Abundant sensory stimulation promotes the formation of brain grooves; a larger brain surface area correlates with greater intelligence.
Impact on Girls: For girls, a father's unique love lays the foundation for their lifelong perception of the opposite sex. A lack of paternal affection can leave them feeling insecure around men and lacking confidence in male relationships. They may either appear overly delicate to win favor or become excessively tough to shield their wounded hearts. Either way, this behavior is almost always modeled after their relationship with their father.
Benefits of Fatherly Education
Fathers typically possess broader knowledge than mothers, often excelling in history, geography, and philosophy. Consequently, fathers tend to share more historical tales, regional customs, and stories of heroic figures. Mothers, in contrast, generally tell fairy tales, which involve less history, geography, and philosophy. This approach falls slightly short in broadening children's horizons and enriching their knowledge.
In cultivating life habits, fathers teach children independence, decisiveness, courage, and a spirit of adventure.They involve children in fixing simple appliances, encourage bold attempts at learning to ride bicycles, and take them hiking or racing. Mothers, however, often seek to shield children from any harm. They discourage participation in activities with even slight risks, constantly worrying about accidental bumps, falls, or exhaustion. This tendency can make children more fragile and timid.
In parenting approaches, fathers typically encourage children to tackle tasks independently, while mothers often prefer doing things for them that they could manage themselves. Fathers tend to be firm with unreasonable demands, whereas mothers frequently give in. When fathers take children shopping, they see more items but buy fewer snacks; when mothers take children shopping, they see fewer items but buy more snacks.
Children raised primarily by fathers tend to have higher IQs. Some fathers shirk their parenting responsibilities by leaving childcare to mothers, seeking a more relaxed role. This approach is problematic. If a child perceives his father as irresponsible, he may avoid seeking his father's advice when faced with challenges, gradually eroding the father's authority.