Attachment - Role of the Father

Question 1

Traditional views on Fathers and Attchment

Answer 1

• Traditionally attachment focuses on mother-infant relationships
• Some researchers argue fathers are less equipped for attachment
• Societal norms often view caregiving as feminine
• Lack of paternity leave historically limited father involvement
• Biological factors like hormone differences cited

Question 2

Biological factors

Answer 2

-Hormones play a role in attachment and caregiving
- Oestrogen: higher in women, linked to caring behaviours
- Oxytocin: “bonding hormone”, rises in mothers during childbirth and breastfeeding
- Traditionally thought to give mothers an advantage in forming attachments

Question 3

Fathers as playmates

Answer 3

• Some research suggests fathers take on a more of a playmate role
• Geiger: father-infant interactions more exciting and fun-focused
• Mother-infant interactions typically more nurturing and affectionate
  e.g. differences in bath time routines

Question 4

The primary caregiver factor

Answer 4

• Tiffany Field’s study challenged traditional views
• Observed interactions between 4 month olds and caregivers
• Primary caregiver fathers behaved similarly to primary caregiver mothers
• Both engaged in more smiling, imitative expressions, and vocalisations than secondary caregiver fathers

Question 5

Biological adaptations in fathers

Answer 5

• Recent studies show fathers can be biologically equipped for nurturing.
• Godnatal: studied oxytocin levels in new parents
• Fathers’ oxytocin levels matched mothers’ after interacting with their child
• Suggests engaged fathers can develop biological processes, encouraging caregiving

Question 6

Cultural influences on attachment

Answer 6

• Most attachment research comes from WEIRD cultures (Westers, Educated, Industrialised, Rich, Democratic)
• Different cultures share parenting responsibilities differently
• Some cultures have multiple caregivers from birth
• Challenges idea of a single primary attachment figure

Question 7

The importance of engagement

Answer 7

• Quality of relationship matters more than gender
• Engaged fathers can form strong attachments
• Involvement in caregiving activities strengthens bond
• Fathers can be nurturing, affectionate and responsive

Question 8

Changing perspectives on fatherhood

Answer 8

• Society’s view of fathers’ roles is evolving
• Increased paternity leave in many countries
• Growing recognition of fathers’ importance in child development
• Shift towards parenting responsibilities