Biology of Dads
It’s often said that every child needs a father, but is there evidence for that? In this insightful documentary, child psychologist Laverne Antrobus explores why father-child relationships are so important. She uncovers fascinating new research that reveals father science.
Laverne met a new father with Couvade syndrome, a condition sometimes called a sympathetic pregnancy. She is keen to investigate whether the symptoms — similar to those experienced by pregnant women, such as nausea and regurgitation — are both physical and psychological. The father had a blood test shortly after the birth of his third child, and Antrobus found that hormones might be at the root of his symptoms: It could be nature’s way of making him a more loving father.
Lavin then met with a leading British expert on the father’s role in the family. As she watched a father and toddler play in his lab, she saw that the rough play they were watching was typical fatherly behavior. This type of paternal play is thought to be essential for teaching young children the limits of aggression and discipline.
In the final survey, Antrobus talked about a recent study showing that men who have a good relationship with their daughters can influence the type of husband their daughters choose. The study also found that girls whose fathers were absent during their formative years were more likely to enter puberty and age faster. Laverne recruited a group of married women for one final fascinating experiment.
