IMPORTANCE OF THE FATHER FIGURE IN CHILD DEVELOPMENT: INTEGRATIVE REVIEW

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Research on the role of parents in child development has gained prominence due to social, economic and technological changes. Previously, there was a traditional view of parental functions, but currently there is an evolution towards a more participatory model on the part of parents. This study is justified based on the importance of paternal involvement in children's development. METHODOLOGY: This is an integrative review. Which was guided by the question, what is the importance of: father figure in child development? The bibliographic search was conducted using the VHL through the databases: LILACS, MEDLINE and BDENF. The search terms were the descriptors registered in the DeCS: “father; father-son relationships; child development”, combined with the Boolean operator AND. The inclusion criteria for selecting the studies were: availability of the full text in Portuguese, English and Spanish, published in the last five years and accessible online. Theses, monographs and works that did not meet the proposed objectives were excluded. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: Parental participation in child development is crucial for children's well-being, influencing their socio-emotional, academic and behavioral development. Parents play a unique role in their children's lives, contributing to their socialization and identity. However, parental involvement may vary according to factors such as culture, socioeconomic context and individual characteristics. The quality of this involvement, including affection, support for autonomy and establishment of limits, is fundamental to the healthy development of children. CONCLUSION: Studies on paternal involvement in child development highlight its relevance and complexity. It is recommended to invest in additional research and promote public policies that encourage positive parenting. It is essential to offer support to parents and the community, in addition to developing and evaluating intervention programs that value paternal presence and functions. This theme stimulates continued interest in the area and the search for solutions that promote the well-being of families and future generations.