As a father, divorce could result in an increased distance between you and your daughter. Recent research highlights this is not in her best interest.
The courts have increasingly leaned toward shared-custody agreements so that they can keep both parents in a child’s life after divorce, and not without reason.
Fathers influence their daughter’s future prospects in several areas
The study found girls whose fathers were present went on to do better in the following three areas:
- Finances: If you stay in your daughter’s life, she is likely to get better grades at school, thus be able to secure a better-paying job. She will also have a better understanding of risk, which can help her make tough decisions in her career, leading to an increased income.
- Future relationships: Knowing that you love her and are there for her gives your daughter a solid sense of self-worth. So when a dodgy guy promises her the world, she is less likely to fall into his trap. She does not crave attention because she already has it from you.
- Well-being: Life is not a smooth ride. The research shows girls understand this better if their fathers were present growing up. Mothers tend to watch over their daughters more. They are more likely to rush over and pick up a child who has fallen. A father is more likely to expect the child to get up themselves. So a daughter who spends time with their father learns that when life knocks you down, you need to get back up yourself. It builds resilience.
Courts no longer assume that daughters should spend more time with their mothers. They realize children need both parents. It is essential to stand up for your rights and those of your daughter when determining your child custody plan. It will benefit both of you in the future.
