Między prawem, obowiązkiem a powołaniem: o roli ojca we współczesnej rodzinie

Abstract

Fatherhood is a special social and pedagogical phenomenon. On the one hand, this is related to important masculine features such as strength, agility and willingness to fight. On the other, the father has a unique influence on future generations. His attitude, activities and presence will shape the mental condition of his children. A man learns to be a father, a task performed throughout lifetime. Recently, there have been increasingly numerous reports indicating fatherhood crisis. On the one hand, this is physical in nature: more and more children are growing up without fathers, who have abandoned their families after divorce. On the other hand, there are signs pointing to men’s emotional alienation. Fathers are increasingly overworked and increasingly seldom see their loved ones, a situation that seems particularly dangerous for children. What is, however, the cure to remedy that? The article will analyze opinions by selected authors involved in the subject of fatherhood. It will include both theoretical reflections and practical guidelines. Special attention will be dedicated to the unique role of the father as an educator shaping the faith and values in his children. It is elements of that role that will offer a cure to the increasing crisis of fatherhood.