National Father's Day, Reflect On 5 Important Roles Of Fathers In Forming Children's Characters

Illustration reflects the important role of father figures in the formation of children's characters in celebration of National Father's Day (Freepic)

YOGYAKARTA - National Father's Day which is celebrated every November 12, is not just a moment to give a thank you, but also an opportunity to look back on the meaning of father's presence in family life. In a healthy family, the role of father is equivalent to the role of mother or other caregivers in creating the formation of children's character and emotions.

Research from the American Academy of Pediatrics, reported Wednesday, November 12, shows that warm and responsive father interactions have a positive impact on children's social and language skills. Father's presence is not about who is more important, but about how active engagement can enrich the child's growth and development experience.

Children learn a lot from what they see at home. When the father shows consistency, keeping promises, or contributing to household chores, the value of the responsibility is naturally embedded. According to research with a systematic review reported by PubMed, the father's emotional involvement supports the formation of a more disciplined and self-controllable child character.

Interestingly, children not only learn about hard work, but also the balance between responsibility and empathy. In this way, fathers act as role models of life that foster integrity without having to be authoritative.

Fathers are often the ones who encourage children to dare to try new things. In a study conducted by Yiqing Zhong entitled The Unique Role of Father Involvement in Child Socioemotional Development, researching the role of fathers in socio-emotional development. According to this study, playing activities with fathers help children develop confidence and the ability to face risks in a healthy way.

Simple words of support like 'You can' form children's self-confidence that they are able to overcome challenges. When fathers are involved in the exploration of the child's world, growing self-confidence does not come from pressure, but from a sense of acceptance and appreciation.

Dad's emotional involvement has a big influence on children's ability to manage feelings. Research conducted by Department of Women's and Children's Health shows that children with supportive and open fathers are easier to understand and express emotions healthily.

When the father listens to and calms the child without judging, he helps the child understand that feelings are not something that must be suppressed. This shows that warmth and gentleness are also part of the strength of parenting, not weakness.

The presence of a stable and responsive father provides a sense of security for children, both physically and emotionally. According to research conducted by Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Mental Health, the support of an empathetic father lowers the risk of stress and improves children's psychological well-being.

This sense of security does not mean domination, but rather a reliable presence. Children who know that their father is ready to listen and support unconditionally will grow more confident and easily build healthy social relationships.

Fathers who are actively involved in children's lives help foster positive empathy, respect, and social values. In research on low-income families published in PubMed, father's involvement has proven to increase prosocial behavior and children's ability to interact positively with the environment.

These values often grow from simple things. Starting from playing together, teaching children to share, or apologizing when making mistakes. From loving interactions, children learn that empathy and social responsibility are an important part of being a whole human being.

On this National Father's Day, it is important to remember that parenting is a loving collaboration process between mothers and fathers for the good of children. The role of fathers who are present, listen, and are emotionally involved have a long-term impact on children's character and happiness. It is important to understand, fathers do not need to be a 'family hero' to have a big influence. A warm, authentic, and equal presence is enough to be a strong foundation for the growth of a strong, fouric, and confident child.