Teenagers spending time with fathers

A study by Brigham Young University shows that teenagers form closer bonds with the family when their fathers spend more time with them. This includes doing things together such as playing catch, watching a movie or eating with them.

http://news.byu.edu/releases/archive12/Jun/fatherplaying/father.jpg

Having surveyed fathers and teens from 647 U.S. households, Professor Ramon Zabriskie concluded “When fathers invest time in low-cost, home-based, spontaneous activities close to or in the home, youth notice the difference. It doesn’t have to be something big. In fact, our research shows the little activities are the most important.”

http://marriottschool.byu.edu/msmadmin/person/securefile/empphoto/?file=b0%2F5264.jpg

The study examined two types of family leisure –

• Core activities that require little planning and little money, such as  playing board games and
• Balance activities that take more time, planning and money, such as family trips.

While balance activities had a positive effect, the core activities played a greater role in the teen’s perception of family life.

“We spend so much effort on the big-ticket items thinking that it’s the most important thing for our families, when really, more time with our kids on day-to-day activities will suffice,” Professor Neil Lundberg said.

http://marriottschool.byu.edu/msmadmin/person/securefile/empphoto/?file=b0%2F5498.jpg

“Too often when people think about family leisure, they think of the time they spend on vacations and neglect the leisure time spent at home,” said Lydia Buswell, the lead author on the study. “Family vacations and other balance activities can only help build a family if there is a foundation to build upon first.”

 

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