The role of the father

• The role of the father is known to be argued commonly between psychologists.
• Some psychologists claim that men are not equipped to form an attachment. This is backed with biological evidence suggesting that the hormone oestrogen underlies caring behaviour in women and the lack of oestrogen in men is why they are unable to form a close attachment
• Other researchers argue that fathers do not take on a caregiver role and in fact provide different role: as a playmate.
• It is also argued that fathers can demonstrate sensitive responsiveness and respond to the needs of their children and therefore can form a strong emotional tie or bond.