Role of the father-EVALUATION Flashcards
what is one limitation of research into the role of the father?
findings vary according to methodology used.
Grossman study found that role of father was secondary and for play and stimulation.
THIS MEANS that we would expect children growing up w single or lesbian parents to turn out diff to those in hetrosex families due to role not being fulfilled.
HOWEVER studies show that children in families w/out a dad don’t turn out diff, so question as to whether dads have a distinctive role to mothers is unanswered.
what is 1 strength of research into the role of the father?
practical application, can be used IRL to give advice to parents on who should stay home.
hard decision as may be influenced by traditional roles, money, pressure etc
shows fathers CAN stay home (however leads to economic issues)
what is another strength of the research into role of fathers?
reassure those in hetrosexual relationships that fathers CAN be primary care-giver, and kids wont be affected if dad stays home.
lesbian=single parents reassured that not having a dad wont affect childs development.
POSITIVE as it reduces ANXIETIES.
another limitation of role of father research?
dads are not as equipped to provide sensitive and nurturing attachment due to their BIOLOGICAL makeup. (lack of oestrogen found in women.)
therefore role of father is RESTRICTED
HOWEVER this is a pessimistic view saying fathers are incapable of nurture which has been contradicted by evidence suggesting fathers can provide whats necessary and be P. figure if needed.
