Sixty studies published before 1970 were examined for this review of research about the effect of father absence on boys. Twenty-four studies found a correlation between father absence and adverse child characteristics, 20 studies found no correlation, and 16 had mixed results. This report summarizes the conclusions of the research about father absence and juvenile delinquency, intellectual and psychosocial functioning, and masculine identity development. In general, the studies suggest that there is a relationship between father absence and increased likelihood of juvenile delinquency that…
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Journal Article Clearly defined elements of mothering and fathering were assessed in 1500 child guidance clinic cases to see if the individual parents provided adequate mothering and fathering. Mothers with characteristics of inadequate mothering were the most likely to have children with behavior problems. Children with inadequate fathering also had some behavior problems but correlations were not as strong as those with inadequate mothering. Children of adequate mothering and fathering had the fewest problems. The study also correlates distinct childhood problems with particular mothering and fathering…