Fathers are an indispensable part of a child’s life, and their role in shaping their child’s development cannot be overstated. They offer emotional support and teach life skills, making them essential to the growth and well-being of their children. Fathers’ involvement doesn’t just start after the baby is born; it begins at the moment of conception. Supportive fathers often have the most significant impact on whether or not the baby is even born. Fathers are the most influential voice in their partner’s pregnancy decision, and their involvement is vital for the future well-being of their child.
In 2022, CareNet surveyed 1,000 men whose partners had an abortion.1 The study revealed that men may not be aware of their influence on the decision. Over 70% of those surveyed had either strongly urged, suggested, or didn’t offer any advice for the woman when she was conflicted about the abortion decision. On the other hand, when women were given a survey in 2015, more than one-third (38%) of women indicated that the father of the baby was most influential in their abortion decision.2
One of the most significant ways fathers impact their children is through their involvement in their child’s life. Active and engaged fathers can positively impact their child’s academic performance, social skills, and emotional development. Children with active fathers are likelier to have higher self-esteem and better mental health outcomes. Fathers also help to instill important values such as hard work, responsibility, and perseverance.
However, many of the fathers we encounter in the pregnancy care ministry feel overwhelmed and unprepared for the prospect of becoming a father. Many of these men have absent fathers themselves, and the fear of failure motivates them to encourage abortion or to remove themselves from the decision.
Fathers play a crucial role in the development and well-being of their children from the very beginning of life, even in the womb. From providing emotional support to teaching life skills, fathers contribute to their child’s growth and success in many ways. As we celebrate fathers, we must recognize and appreciate their invaluable contributions to their children’s lives.
We also need to be prepared to come alongside fathers faced with an unplanned pregnancy to help them be the fathers that God designed them to be! If you are interested in being a Fatherhood Advocate, we seek men in and around Moultrie who want to pray for and encourage the men we encounter here at Hope House Women’s Clinic. Reach out to us to learn more!
