Survey Finds Fathers Share Childcare Responsibility Across Ireland

Recent discussions and research highlight the evolving roles of fathers in parenting, emphasizing their increasing involvement beyond traditional breadwinner roles. In Ireland, the State of the World's Fathers Survey shows that many fathers now see themselves as equally responsible for childcare, although policy and research still lag behind these changes. Programs like New York City's Fatherhood Initiative at Rikers Island support incarcerated dads in maintaining relationships with their children and developing parenting skills, highlighting the importance of emotional connection and co-parenting. Media personalities also share experiences of balancing work and fatherhood, underscoring the value of quality time with children amidst busy schedules. Additionally, cultural and historical perspectives reveal the complex roles fathers have played, combining authority with nurturing, suggesting that children benefit from both a stable father figure and an actively engaged dad. Experts like evolutionary anthropologist Anna Machin further explore the positive impact of more involved fathers on human love and family dynamics.