What is Fatherhood? Is it a role, a frame of reference, a behavior, or just a set of socially sanctioned activities? At one time fathering meant being a good provider, not a nurturer or a homemaker. Today the role of a father has greatly expanded? Has it evolved to reflect who we are as a human being as opposed to a narrowly defined behavior? Is fatherhood something innate to men or a process to be understood, and developed based upon our own personal histories? Is being a “good” father different than being a good person? Do all men have the qualities to be “good” or more importantly healthy father?

We often hear about the value of fatherhood. Is it more than just being present in the home? How essential are father’s as opposed to having a healthy home environment and caregivers? Are there unique values and frames of reference that fathers should pass on to their progeny and children they care for. Fatherhood does not exist in a vacuum. It cannot fully examined without considering the mother or her absence and how society impacts the father role.Fathers are often the role models for love & intimacy, masculinity, gender equality, the treatment of women, etc. What’s the impact of all this for home, family and society?

Join The FLOW, guests and callers on Heart of the Matter, The Relatiionship Magazine, www.blogtalkradio.com/the-flow on November 15th at 6PM where we will explore the multi-demensions of fatherhood. Please share your comments here or send The FLOW email at flow4theworld@verizon.net and of course, join us on Heart of the Matter.