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We often talk about motherhood, and why shouldn't we? There are so many layers to it, but being a parent is not just for mother. The responsibility is equal for a father, if not more. Fatherhood is a deeply personal journey, but being a "girl dad" brings its own unique experiences and lessons. This experience transforms many men in ways they never expected. It makes them understand women more, and takes away the distant they may have built in their lives when it came to understanding women around them. For many fathers, raising daughter opens up a deeper emotional connection and reshapes how they view themselves and the world around them.
Before being a father to a daughter, a man may relate to women in various role - a son to a mother, a brother to a sister, a friend, a spouse or a colleague. While these relationships are meaningful, fatherhood changes the dynamics completely.
For father, the experience of raising a daughter fosters a sense of chivalry and responsibilities. Fathers also live longer when they have daughter, it is because they make safer choices. Numerous studies, including the one published in 2006 titled: Daughters increase longevity of fathers, but daughters and sons equally reduce longevity of mothers, notes of the same phenomena.
They become more aware of the example they set and strive to model kindness, respect, and care in their everyday actions. Others develop a heightened emotional awareness, learning to navigate and support the complex emotional needs of their daughters. From attending tea parties and playing dress-up to engaging in meaningful conversations, the experience reshapes their perception of fatherhood and relationships with women.
If you are new into fatherhood and have a daughter and are looking for a breakdown of what fatherhood should be like for a girl dad, this is how you can support your daughters.
A father's love is one of the most impactful relationships in a daughter's life and it is essential for the father to express their love openly. The support their daughter needs comes from the love that the father shows, which reflects a safe and secure space. This helps nurture a sense of self-worth and confidence that will shape the daughter's relationship with others.
Fathers must affirm their daughters daily. Emphasizing their value goes beyond physical appearance. If you are a father to a daughter, recognize her intelligence, creativity and uniqueness. Help your daughter develop a strong self-image.
Supporting daughters in their hobbies and interests strengthens the father-daughter bond. Whether it’s sports, arts, or academics, showing genuine interest in their pursuits helps build confidence and resilience. Even if their choices differ from what a father initially envisioned, embracing and celebrating their passions is key to their development.
Teach your daughters to be independent and equip them with skills that they need to navigate the world. Encourage them to make decisions while also setting clear boundaries.
You can become a role model of what healthy relationship and mutual respect looks like. By demonstrating positive interactions, fathers can teach their daughters how to set boundaries and communicate effectively with anyone of opposite gender.
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