Letter:

Culture gives fatherhood what Mother Nature left out

Mother Nature herself supports the mother-child bond. All kinds of animal studies show that mothers are equipped physiologically and psychologically to shower their babies with affection, protection and nutrition. Yet, because of the demands of a human baby, a being with a huge brain and totally helpless, mothers also rely on social support.

One such blessing is Mother's Day. It is not much in the scheme of things, just one day, but it serves to remind all of us the gratitude we owe to our moms. But, what about fathers? Mother Nature seems to have shortchanged them. Birth is not a physical and physiological event for them.

Men do experience hormonal changes in response to the birth of their children, but not like that of the mother. Most mammal fathers hardly know who their kids are. Many would prefer to visit many flowers rather than stick to one and raise the kids.

What does need social support - desperately - is fatherhood.

Why would a man, following his biological imperatives, bother with fatherhood? Why would he stick with one woman to help her raise his child? Why would he allow his disposable income to be split in half? Why would he give up chasing other, more attractive women? Why would he risk financial and emotional ruin in case of a divorce?

The answer is because he grew up in a culture that gave special meaning and reverence to fathers. Fatherhood has become a social institution, fashioned together by innumerable laws and customs. Fathers' Day is one of them.

George Kocan

Warrenville