Fathers Matter: More Evidence On Their Importance – OpEd

Scientists concerned with the increasing incidence of early onset puberty have discovered a disturbing correlation:

Girls who grew up without a biological father are twice as likely to get their period before age 12

This is important because, according to a study published in the journal Pediatrics, “the health consequences of earlier onset of puberty are myriad:” ranging from a higher risk of depression in early adolescence to risk-taking behaviors such as alcohol use, smoking, drug use, and early sexual activity.

Longer term, as adults they’re at a higher risk for obesity, Type 2 diabetes and breast cancer.

While research points to other contributing factors, including increasing rates of childhood obesity and mothers who are overweight during pregnancy, Dr. Louise Greenspan, co-author of an American Journal of Epidemiology study, says toxic stress, including growing up without a father, is an important factor in girls’ starting puberty early.

While other studies have concentrated on the negative effects of growing up without a father on boys, not surprisingly, girls need a father too. It’s tragic that the trend against two-parent homes is only growing larger.

Politicians habitually deny reality: that’s what gets them elected. But we don’t have to buy what they’re selling, and we need to universally reject policies that undermine the family. We are hurting children—our only future.

This article appeared in The Beacon.