One Reason Dads Matter

Persistence is a trait that most parents want to see developed in their children. When the assignment is difficult, we want to see our kids persist in their studies and do well. When the team is losing, we want a child who stays in the fight until time runs out. When faced with an assault on faith, we want a child who stands firm no matter what.

We know from research that persistent children are less likely to be delinquent and more likely to be engaged in school. This is good and an advantage to give to our kids.

So if you want to develop a persistent personality in your child, dads are key.

A study in the Journal of Early Adolescence concludes that dads matter when it comes to developing persistence.

Brigham Young University researchers studied children from two-parent families and found that a dad's' parenting style, more so than a mom's, influenced persistence in children.

Specifically, dads who used an authoritative parenting style influenced their kids in a positive way when it comes to persistence. Authoritative parenting is characterized by a warm style of lovingly listening, but also providing rules and structure. Rules are explained and autonomy is encouraged. So there is a nice balance between loving and accountability.

Why dads are more influential in this area of developing persistence is not known. One explanation could be that dad's focus more on persistence. Whatever the case, dads play an important role.

So dads, think about what you are trying to pass on to your children. Look at your parenting style.

And know that no matter how the culture tries to downplay your role as a dad, you matter, especially when it comes to developing certain traits in your children.

Every child needs a listening dad who sets structure and provides accountability in a way that is authoritative and loving. This approach, when it comes to supporting your children to stay in the game and reach the end goal, is an important role to play.