Keywords

fatherhood, contemporary fatherhood, America, religion

Abstract

Charles Dickens, the English author and keen observer of human affairs, wrote of revolution-era France: "It was the best of times, it was the worst of times." In many ways, Dickens' dichotomy regarding "the best of times" and "the worst of times" captures the state of contemporary American fatherhood. Many fathers are more highly involved with their children than the fathers of past generations. Conversely, many other fathers are disconnected from or uninvolved with their children. For many of the fathers who are highly involved in their children's lives, their religious faith is a motivational influence.

Original Publication Citation

Marks, L. D., & Dollahite, D. C. (2007). Turning the hearts of fathers to their children: Why religious involvement can make a difference. In S. E. Brotherson, & J. M. White (Eds.), Why fathers count (pp. 335-351). Harriman, TN: Men’s Studies Press.