Fathers aren't dispensable just yet

This story is a fascinating “take” on the differences between mothers and fathers, and possibly relevant to the debate over same sex parenting….

by Linda Geddes

YOU may be tempted to think men are becoming an optional extra in the mating game, but biochemical evidence in mice and people suggests that fathers may play a key role in the rearing of offspring. Previous studies have hinted at the importance of fathers in child-rearing. Some have shown that girls reach puberty younger, become sexually active earlier and are more likely to get pregnant in their teens if their father was absent when they were young. Others have suggested that the sons of absent fathers display lower intimacy and self-esteem.

http://www.newscientist.com/article/mg20327184.000-fathers-arent-dispensable-just-yet.html