Book Review: Strong Fathers, Strong Daughters by Meg Meeker

Strong Fathers, Strong Daughters: Ten Secrets Every Father Should Know by Meg Meeker

A lot of ink (digital and actual) has been put down about the relationships between fathers and sons. But what about fathers' relationships to their daughters? The literature is rather slim. This book provides some practical advice and motivation to fathers so that they will be more involved in their daughters' lives, even from an early age.

The book emphasizes a point that is generally neglected: Fathers are a role model to their daughters of what men should be like. Daughters will measure guys according to their fathers' behavior. If fathers treat their daughters with respect and take care of them, they will in turn expect that from other men. The intent isn't to create a princess who needs everything from others, but a woman who knows what she wants, what's expected of her, and what she can do.

One of the biggest issues is to protect girls from the toxic environment that is modern culture. The standard women who appear in entertainment or advertising are ridiculously thin, voluptuous, and underdressed. As models to strive for, such women are the opposite of helpful. Cutting girls off from such culture is impossible, but developing the right attitude towards that culture is a job for mothers and fathers. Establishing ground rules and sticking to them is critical, even in awkward situations, like parties where too much drinking goes on. Fathers need to take charge, to take care of their daughters.

The book is alarming as it looks at problems girls face: for example, sexual promiscuity and eating disorders. The author uses both statistics and examples drawn from her medical practice to discuss the issues and tell how fathers can be a positive influence in their daughters' lives. The stories are shocking and depressing, though often they do have happy endings. It's a very hard world. Girls need support, especially from their family.

This is a very valuable and interesting book to read, especially for men with daughters.

Recommended.