KEY POINTS:
Being around is not enough for dads - they need to be actively involved in their children's lives.
A report released today said there are confusing and conflicting expectations on fathers.
Maxim Institute researcher David Lees said fathers should be encouraged about the real difference they can make in their children's lives, if they are involved the right way.
"When fathers are supportive, involved and close to their children, there is a positive and unique association with their children's happiness, attachment, self-esteem and perceptions of self-competence."
Mr Lees said mothers and fathers have different effects on children and both are needed for maximum benefit.
"We also need to do a better job of recognising the need for strong long-term relationships.
"These allow a child to experience not just the unique contributions from their mother and father, but also the added joint effect of them parenting together."
He recommended media, employers and the family court all needed to change their attitudes towards fathers.
"Those providing services to families need to do a better job of treating the father as a parent in his own right, not simply as a support person for the mother."
- NZPA
