Fathers in cultural context

David W. Shwalb, Barbara J. Shwalb, Michael E. Lamb

This reviews the latest research on fathering from every continent, from cultures representing over 50 per cent of the world's population. International experts on 14 societies and regions discuss cultural and historical influences, variations between and within cultures, and socio economic conditions and policies that impact fathering. Contributors from several disciplines provide reviews of the empirical data to help us gain an understanding of fathering worldwide. Over 1,000 studies on fathering published in languages other than English are made accessible to readers around the world. The cultures were selected based on availability of substantial research on fathering; representation of worldwide geography; a balance between large, middle, and small populations; and significance for a global understanding of fathering. Each chapter features personal case stories, photos, and maps...