According To Research, This Is The Reason Why Fathers Are More Protective Of Their Girls

YOGYAKARTA - A father's protective attitude towards his daughter is not a clich. However, what exactly makes some fathers seem much more protective against girls than boys? According to a review of experts and psychologists at the University of Playmouth, Farid Pazhoohi, Ph.D., research explores the effectiveness, support, and protective father of their daughter.

The father's tendency to better protect girls is related to a human-reproductive strategy that has developed for thousands of years. In the past, the risk to the reputation and safety of women in a sexual context is greater than that of men, and could have a major impact on the social and genetic continuity of a family. That's why, evolutionaryally, a stronger protective pattern appears for girls.

However, that doesn't mean all fathers are doing this automatically. According to research published in April 2025 reported by Psychology Today, Sunday, July 6, environmental, cultural, and personality factors of the father also have an effect. For example, fathers who have conservative values tend to show a more protective attitude, especially in terms of relationships and romantic relationships between their daughters. On the other hand, more egalitarian or progressive fathers may actually try to educate their daughters to be independent and confident without too much restrictions.

Research also shows that the strong emotional bond between father and daughter can trigger a natural protective response. This is often interpreted as a form of love and responsibility, although sometimes it can collide with the child's desire to get freedom.

Interestingly, this protective attitude is not always related to distrust of girls. Rather, it is more about wanting to protect them from complex social risks, especially at a young age. In this case, many fathers feel responsible as protectors in a social context that continues to change.

However, it is important for fathers to balance between protection and trust. Maintaining does not mean limiting excessively, but provides space for children to develop into strong and independent individuals. An open and empathic dialogue approach is the key so that the father-son relationship remains healthy and supports each other.

In the end, wise protection is a form of love that does not curb, but rather guides. Being a father is not only a matter of guarding, but also about believing and equipping girls to face the world with an upright head and a strong heart.