Maturity of Paternal Attitudes and Age of Fathers

Abstract

The article discusses paternal attitudes in fathers belonging to different age groups. The survey was founded upon studies of such attitudes in men of two age groups, up to 25 years, and up to 35 years. It revealed that older men tended to develop excessive concentration upon the other, emotionally dependent person. Future fathers were too strongly interested in the pregnant wife, and similarly excessive emotional concentration was directed at the child as well. They took too strict care of it. The resulting ’hothouse’ conditions although able to accelerate the development could lead to lowered physical and emotional resistance. Men, both younger and older revealed great interest in the child and its life. This is an obviously positive attitude although in some cases it can evolve into prying and isolating the child from the outside influence.