Lack of Male Role Models in Kid's Lives

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Making a Difference in Children’s Lives Role models are people who are looked up to by others. Some people may not view themselves as role models, even though they may hold a prominent position. The effects of some role models may not always be positive, and these are things adults need to be aware of because children need positive role models and will find one whether or not encouraged to do so. It is natural instinct for children to look up to adults for guidance. Adults hold the key to our future, and I worry about the lack of male role models present in our children’s lives. Fathers provide much more than an extra paycheck at the end of every month. Our culture has been telling men that if they are good providers that equates to being a good dad. However, research is now sending a newsflash to men and women that it isn’t all about the money. Children need a father’s presence in their lives; fathers are approval providers, serve as authority figures and provide children with an example of manhood. Children that do not have a father figure to model these characteristics, look to their peers and often lack the guidance a father can provide. By a father’s actions, children learn how a man should treat women, and how to be responsible in life. Not only is a father’s approval very important in a child’s life but also the spouses’ life. Single mothers struggle with authority, having a spouse around provides the mother help with enforcing rules and guidelines. These characteristics a father provides are lacking in most of the children today. Did you know that over one third of children in the United States do not have a father who lives in the household? Of those children, one in five have not seen their father in over five years (Nadine Silverthorne). Not having a father around can affect children in many ways; emotionally, financially and scholastically. Statics
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