FATHERS ARE VITAL TO THE FAMILY

A 1996 Gallup Poll on Fathering shows that recognition of the importance of the father's role in the life of his children is growing. In considering the statement, "The most significant family, or social problem facing America is the physical absence of the father from the home," 79.1% of the respondents agreed or strongly agreed. But in 1992, only 69.9% of those surveyed agreed or strongly agreed with the statement. The biggest increase was in those who strongly agreed.

Equally telling, is that all forms of disagreement with the statement dropped from 28.4% to 18.0% over those same four years.

The same 1996 Gallup Poll also shows a universal recognition of the father's unique contribution to his children. To the statement, "Fathers make unique contributions to their children's lives," over 90% of those surveyed registered agreement or strong agreement.

These polls were taken for the National Center for Fathering. Because some of those surveyed answered "Don't know," or refused to answer, totals may not equal 100%.