Chapter 7 "Comparing Fathers and Mothers"

One of the most important things I learned through this chapter is the difference between a mother and father and their infants social and emotional development. I always thought that the mother were the ones to compose the babies laughter and emotions because they already have that strong bond with their mother from birth. However , I learned that men with close relationships with their kids can teach appropriate expressions of emotion. This also helps when the child develops into a teenager, being able not to lash out on authority or friends. Also, when men keep a good stable relationship with their kid they can reduce the risk of depression. I actually looked into this because I was comparing people I know who have great relationships with their father, compared to me who hasn't had the greatest relationship and I can tell the difference. One of my closest friends and her father are very close and always have been since she was really little. She is one of the sweetest people I know and is sweet to everyone she knows. Her dad also is a very happy man and is always sweet to her and his family. I think that the reason my best friend is the way she is, is because her dad was always a great role model in her life. When I compare this to my life with a dad who wasn't that connected, I can see my dad more depressed and more alone feeling than those who have a good connection with their child. On that note, with me also, I feel that in certain situations I am not the nicest or most happy person to be around. The whole reading about how a dad affects a kid really made me realize and connect some things in my life. This actually made me realize why my dad acts the way he does and why my best friends dad is always happy. I learned that having a good relationship with your kids is one of the most important things in life, to give your kid emotional, stable, and a supportive life.