Responsible Fatherhood

• NCJ Number: 247942
• Author(s): Eileen M. Garry
• Date Published: December 1997
• Length: 2 pages
• Agencies: OJJDP
• Publication Type: Issue Overview; Instructional Material; Factsheet

Annotation

After reviewing some of the positive effects on children of having an ongoing, positive connection to their fathers, as well as the adverse effects of not having such a relationship, this Fact Sheet presents an overview of "Map and Track: State Initiatives to Encourage Responsible Fatherhood," which examines the State's role in promoting responsible fatherhood.

Abstract

This publication of the National Center for Children in Poverty (NCCP) examines trends across the States, identifies and profiles State strategies that encourage fathers to be responsible, and summarizes fatherhood-related data State-by-State. A national statistical profile of fatherhood is also presented. The NCCP has identified five strategies States have developed to encourage fathers to be responsible for their children's welfare: (1) Increase public awareness about responsible fatherhood; (2) Prevent unwanted or too-early fatherhood; (3) Promote fathers' economic responsibility as providers; (4) Encourage fathers as nurturers and enhance family and other social relationships; and (5) Build leadership capacity around fatherhood issues at both the State and local levels. The 50 States, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico each reported at least one activity in support of promoting responsible fatherhood. Seven States are implementing activities in all five areas, and 32 States are active in three or four of the strategies.