The father's contribution to child care: effects on children's perceptions of parental roles

Adult role behavior and its effects on children were explored in a study of dual-career and traditional families. Fathers who were active in child care were found to be more nurturant and to partake in more housework. Fewer stereotypes about the maternal role were held by girls than by boys; and boys whose parents shared responsibility for child care held fewer stereotypes about the paternal role than did boys from traditional families.