The Challenge of Parenthood
by: Richard Flowers
"A new baby is like the beginning of all things--wonder, hope, a dream of possibilities." (Eda J. Le Shan)
The Transition to Parenthood
Becoming a parent is a major lifestyle change that can be very rewarding yet very stressful. Consider the following advice on how to make this step more easily in your new job as a parent.
Parenthood is a step into a new lifestyle
It is important to be aware that you will be challenged to make changes in your life of being single and may be resistant to those changes. Welcome and embrace the change as a challenge to your new life as a parent.
Parents need to recognize the importance of a mother and a father in a child's life
Even though mothers usually tend to be the primary parent in the child's life, fathers have a very important role in the life and identity of the child. A study on parent-infant attachment found that fathers who were affectionate, spent time with their children, and overall had a positive attitude were more likely to have securely attached infants. (Cox, 1992)
In a 26 year longitudinal study on 379 individuals, researchers found that the single most important childhood factor in developing empathy is paternal involvement. Fathers who spent time alone with their kids performing routine childcare at least two times a week, raised children who were the most compassionate adults. (Koestner, 1990)
A new Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center study points to the important role fathers play in their children's emotional and behavioral health. The study shows that a father in good mental health can substantially reduce the negative influence of a mother's poor mental health on a child's behavioral and emotional well-being. "If a mother and father are depressed, the odds that a child will have behavioral or emotional problems go up eight-fold," according to Robert S. Kahn, MD, MPH, a physician / researcher in the Division of General and Community Pediatrics at Cincinnati Children's and the study's lead author. (Khan, Brandt, & Whitaker, 2004)
In another study According to a Gallup Poll, 90.3 percent of Americans agree that "fathers make a unique contribution to their children's lives." (Gallup, 1996)
Parents, leave your old baggage!
Do not pollute your new life with your spouse and children by bringing in old pain and luggage from the past. Instead promote healing and closure for your new life ahead of you.
Parents, no deposit, no return
(continued...)
The Challenge of Parenthood
Page 2
|
