FATHERHOOD: EXPLORING WAYS TO PLAY YOUR PART The evidence clearly shows a decline in fatherhood in American families. The results are disparaging, but there is a silver lining. Initiatives have been launched across the country since the 1990s. There is a growing number of courageous men determined to dispel the postmodern stereotype of botched or, worse, absent fatherhood. Typing fatherhood into a Google search engine generates a sizable list of websites geared towards equipping and empowering dads. And lifelong employment isn't as daunting as you might think: in fact, fatherhood is one of the most rewarding and self-fulfilling jobs a man could ever attempt to undertake. Furthermore, such rewards are scattered throughout one's life. It is the gift that keeps on giving, as generation after generation reaps the sweet fruit of one man's tender labor. A man's legacy is directly tied to the time, energy, love and support he invests in active fatherhood. Furthermore, fatherhood has many advantages for men. When men become active fathers a transformation occurs. Studies in human populations in China, the United States, and the Philippines have found that involved dads have lower testosterone levels, which affects aggression levels and libido (Mitchell, 2013). This decrease in testosterone levels helps fathers to "slow down" and enjoy caring for their children. Some ways men can take steps to become involved fathers are quite simple. It generally begins with conception. A father can become active right from pregnancy by supporting his wife, boyfriend or girlfriend emotionally and physically. It is important for a father to be present at all clinic appointments, check-ups and prenatal visits...... half of the document ......his-disappears-from-families-in-america/?page= allSanders , R. (2013, November 12). The fatherlessness crisis in America [Infographic]. Retrieved from http://www.fatherhood.org/bid/190202/The-Father-Absence-Crisis-in-America-InfographicTips for Men: How to Be a Good Father and Husband. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.datehookup.com/content-tips-for-men-how-to-be-a-good-father-and-husband.htm Wilcox, W.B. (2013, December 16). Children are better off with a father than without –NYTimes.com. Retrieved from http://www.nytimes.com/roomfordebate/2013/06/03/what-are-fathers-for/children-are-better-off-with-a-father-than-without-oneWilliams, R.B. ( 2011, June 19). The decline of fatherhood and the crisis of male identity | Psychology Today. Retrieved from http://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/wired-success/201106/the-decline-fatherhood-and-the-male-identity-crisis