The first man: father-daughter relationship

What does the father-daughter relationship influence?

Self-confidence:

Most girls are very sure of their mother's love. However, they often compete for their father's attention. Therefore, by showing love and appreciation you greatly strengthen your daughter's self-confidence. Various studies show that women with a strong relationship to their father are less likely to suffer from depression or eating disorders in adulthood.

Relationships:

'You marry your father.' What is usually said with a wink actually has some truth: because people feel most comfortable with what they know, adult women often choose a partner based on their father's characteristics - even if unconsciously. Or they demand constant attention and love in later relationships to compensate for earlier deficits in affection.

Thinking:

Men and women deal with situations differently. Although the generalization that women decide with their feelings and men with their minds is of course not always true, a father's actions also influence his daughter's. By observing him she learns that there are other ways to handle a situation - and not just the way mom always does.

Independence:

Fathers interact with their children differently than mothers do. They are usually less anxious and more likely to trust their children. This also affects girls' independence. Studies in the USA have found that women in leadership positions often had a particularly good relationship with their father.

When the daughter becomes a woman: father-daughter relationship during puberty

Sooner or later the sweet girl becomes a young woman. By the time her body begins to develop feminine curves during puberty, every father realizes that his daughter is growing up. This changes the relationship and distance and feelings of embarrassment often appear: cuddling is no longer as natural as it once was, and you can no longer barge into the bathroom when your daughter is showering. Try to give her the necessary space.

Feelings of jealousy are also completely normal when your daughter brings her first boyfriend home. Instead of wagging your finger and introducing new rules, you should continue to show your daughter how much you appreciate and love her. If you notice that she always has a safe haven with her father and you support her, the relationship will stay strong through the difficult years until adulthood.

Father-daughter relationship in divorced families

In Germany, about every fifth child grows up with only one parent due to separation or other circumstances - mostly with the mother. However, the male perspective remains important for the girl's development. Even if the relationship with the mother is over and possibly difficult, you should try to maintain and strengthen contact with your daughter. This way you can do a lot of good.

How can I strengthen the father-daughter relationship?

Allow your own feelings:

The father may bring a bit more rationality to the relationship. But that does not mean you are not allowed to show feelings. Rather, it will benefit the daughter if she sees that a man can also show his feelings.

Take time:

Paternity leave for fathers makes it possible: taking time to build a close relationship with your own daughter. The genuine attention your daughter receives from you during this time has a strong impact on her development and will bond you more closely.

Cuddling:

Especially in the first years of life, physical contact is extremely important for bonding with your child. Dad doesn't always have to be there just to roughhouse and fool around; he can also show his love by cuddling.

Spark interest:

Don't assume from the outset that your daughter won't be interested in how to play soccer or how to fix things. Activities that are not necessarily associated with 'being a girl' can still be fun for many. Hobbies can develop from this that you both do together and that strengthen the relationship.

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