As Father’s Day approaches, the significance of fathers and father figures in the emotional and developmental journey of children is being highlighted.
Diego Alphonso, Senior Gender Affairs Officer at the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security, underscored the crucial role that fathers play in nurturing a child’s well-being and growth.
Alphonso noted that fathers, akin to mothers, serve as fundamental pillars in shaping a child’s emotional stability.
Children rely on their parents for establishing boundaries, feeling secure both physically and emotionally, and receiving affirmation and guidance.
He emphasized that while some parents take on dual roles, the presence of a father figure remains pivotal for holistic development.
Highlighting the consequences of lacking a father figure, Alphonso pointed out potential challenges such as low self-esteem, difficulty managing emotions, poor academic performance, and lack of motivation among children.
He stressed that providing security and affection fosters a healthy family environment and contributes significantly to a child’s upbringing.
Speaking at a recent Fatherhood Panel Discussion, Alphonso stressed the importance of fathers offering words of affirmation and spending quality time with their children.
Activities such as engaging in sports, going out together, and bonding through shared experiences are crucial for nurturing father-child relationships and affirming a child’s sense of identity and self-worth.
Furthermore, Alphonso highlighted that fathers influence not only their child’s internal development but also their future relationships with others.
The way fathers interact with their children shapes their expectations and perceptions of relationships with friends, romantic partners, and spouses as they mature.
As families prepare to celebrate Father’s Day, the reflections on the role of fathers serve as a reminder of their enduring impact on the lives of their children and the importance of nurturing positive father-child relationships.