by Carjamin Scott on June 16, 2018, at 10:56 p.m. CST
According to a study by the Centers for Disease Control, black fathers were the most involved with children no matter if they lived with them or not. A greater percentage of black fathers, when compared with white and Hispanic fathers, fed or ate meals with children daily, bathed, diapered or dressed children daily, played with children daily, and read to children daily. The study also proved that overall, American dads are more involved with childcare than in years past.
The CDC report complements research on fathers by the Pew Research Center, which reported the changing definition of fatherhood in the United States. Here are six facts.
- Over 50% of moms and dads reported that parenthood is an essential part of their identity.
- Dads are spending more time on child care and homework than in years past.
- 48% of working fathers would rather be home with their children instead of working.
- 58% of moms and dads ranked values and morals higher than discipline, emotional support, and income when asked, which was extremely important for children.
- 70% of Americans say it’s important for the baby to bond with mom and dad.
- Black fathers 70% were most involved and likely to have bathed, dressed, diapered, or helped their children use the toilet every day compared with white 60% and Hispanic fathers 45%.
On this Father’s Day, let’s remember the dads in our lives and appreciate the love, guidance, and support they provide to us. Here are some tributes to dad.
“My father taught me to believe in myself at all times. Whatever I was into at the time, whether it be track and field, swimming, medical school, or Alpha Phi Alpha, he would assure me that I was able to do it. “You can do anything you put your mind to” is something I grew up hearing. Similarly, “always stay a little cold and a little hungry. It keeps you sharp” was another quote I keep in mind when trying to attack obstacles. I believe that my determination and confidence in myself comes from both my parents and my dad has been vitally important to my development as a caring individual. I would not be the person I am today without the drive and determination that was instilled in me for achieving my goals.” James Roberson, M.D. Meharry Medical College
“The one thing my dad taught me was the value of hard work. If you wanted something out of life, you had to work hard for it. This is something I have always done, and it was because of him.” Jason Harrison, B.A. Fisk University
“My dad has vicariously taught me several valuable life lessons. We are different in so many ways, yet the similarities we share and nurture are a strong work ethic and unconditional love and support for the family.” Verontae Deems, Ed.D. Lipscomb University
What do you think about the CDC and Pew Research studies? Leave a comment below.
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Great to hear that black fathers are very involved with the children!
Well it is true, no matter how you slice it
It took a study to tell the world what our family has always known, black fathers ROCK! From my father, to my husband and father-in-law our family has been blessed with strong men who always put family first and relished being fathers. My husband is the consummate Girl Dad. My father was my first love and taught me to value myself and what healthy love looks like. My father-in-law raised 3 kids by himself, all are successful, healthy, loving people. Black fathers have always been a cornerstone of the family. The media’s constant negative representation has overshadowed their value, influence and importance in our communities. The gift of Kobe’s death is the positive conversation around black fatherhood.