The Role of the Father in Child Development

This comprehensive reference work offers a definitive examination of how fathers influence child development, synthesizing decades of research and contemporary perspectives. Edited by the preeminent authority Michael E. Lamb, this fifth edition assembles contributions from international experts to provide a thorough, evidence-based summary of modern fatherhood. It moves beyond outdated stereotypes to explore paternal roles across diverse cultures, economic systems, and evolving family structures, making it an essential academic resource.

What distinguishes this volume is its rigorous, cross-cultural lens and its commitment to reflecting the full spectrum of contemporary fathering experiences. It is an indispensable text for students and professionals in psychology, social work, and family studies, providing the foundational knowledge needed to understand and support father-child relationships in the 21st century. The updated research and global perspectives ensure its continued status as the seminal work in the field of paternal impact on developmental outcomes.