Biology of Dads
1 X 1hr for BBC FOUR
'Every child needs a father' is a phrase heard often enough, but
is there any evidence to support it? In this enlightening
documentary, child psychologist Laverne Antrobus goes on a quest to
discover why a dad's relationship with his offspring is so
important. She uncovers fascinating new research which is shedding
light onto the science of fatherhood.
Laverne meets a new dad who is experiencing Couvade Syndrome, a
condition sometimes known as 'sympathetic pregnancy'. She is keen
to explore if the symptoms - which are similar to those felt by
pregnant women, such as nausea and sickness - might be
physiological as well as psychological. The dad takes a blood test
shortly after the birth of his third child and Antrobus discovers
that hormones could be the cause of his symptoms: possibly nature's
way of 'priming' him to become a more nurturing father.
Laverne then meets one of the UK's leading experts in the father's
role within the family. While observing father and toddler play in
his lab, she finds out how the rough-and-tumble play they witness
is classic 'dad behaviour'. It is believed that this type of
fatherly play is essential in teaching toddlers the boundaries of
aggression and discipline.
In the final investigation, Antrobus looks into recent research
which claims that men who have a good relationship with their
daughters can influence the kind of husband the daughters choose.
The study also found that girls whose fathers were absent during
their formative years tend to reach puberty sooner and age quicker.
Laverne recruits a team of married women to take part in one final,
fascinating experiment.