Fatherhood reconsidered: a critical review

Area of Science:

• Sociology
• Developmental Psychology
• Family Studies

Background:

• North American fatherhood research has evolved significantly, with changing societal expectations for fathers.
• Previous research concentrated on socialization, development, and descriptions of paternal behavior.

Purpose of the Study:

• To critically review the three main research foci on North American fatherhood.
• To examine cultural images and empirical data on participatory versus absent fathers.
• To propose a future research agenda based on the social construction of gender.

Main Methods:

• Critical literature review of existing research on fatherhood.
• Analysis of socialization and developmental theories related to fathers and children.
• Examination of empirical studies on paternal conduct and cultural perceptions.

Main Results:

• Research has historically focused on socialization, development, and paternal conduct.
• Significant paradigm shifts in fatherhood expectations have occurred over recent decades.
• Empirical data exists on both involved and absent fathers, reflecting diverse cultural images.

Conclusions:

• A social construction of gender framework offers a robust approach for understanding fatherhood.
• Future research should explore the social construction of gender in fatherhood.
• Recommendations for theory development, research, and social policy are proposed.