Quick Test for Dads

• Quick Test for Dads

1. Effective Dads teach primarily by role modeling. To be a role mode, a Dad has to be interactive with his child, not a little, but a lot. Are you “there” for your child?
• Do you work 60+ hours a week?
• Do you travel (overnight) more than 50 days a year?
• Do you live in a different city than your child?
• Do you spend twice as much time with your home computer , TV or sports than you do with your child?

2. Fathers form secure attachments with their children through active, physical “rough and tumble” play. Do you and your child play together at least 2-3 times a week?

3. Absentee Dads often claim that they make up for the time they’ve missed with their children by spending “quality time” with them. Which list do you believe builds quality father-child relationships?

4. The evidence supports the notion that fathers play an important role in preparing their children for life outside the comfort of the family. At times, Dad’s role will trigger conflict with Mom about rules, consequences, risk taking,, performance expectation, children becoming self-reliant and self-protective. When conflicts arise, do you automatically “give in”, assuming that the child’s mother knows best?

5. Active fathers understand that the power of their role is linked to their ability to pull their child into their world. Do you initiate and welcome opportunities to be with your child; to take him/her with you to work, on errands, or to join you in doing the things you enjoy as a man?

6. Children without effective fathers run a far greater risk of getting in trouble for uncontrolled anger or aggression. When arguments between family members occur within your home, you are able to contain your anger (i.e., avoid name calling, hitting, cursing)?

7. Effective fathers do not portray themselves as heroes, nor do they think of themselves as flawless. When you’ve over reacted angrily, been too critical or let your child down, do you readily admit your mistakes and apologize to your child?

Chances are you could see through this brief quiz. But if you still answered the questions in a way which indicates that you could be a better dad, you might be interested in learning more about how to become a more involved father.