Final answer:
Fatherhood involvement varies by cultural norms, race, and the age of children. Proximity to fathers after divorce benefits children's well-being, and economic control within the family can indirectly affect parental involvement.
Step-by-step explanation:
The involvement of fathers in parenting, often referred to as fatherhood involvement, varies greatly across different cultures and individual circumstances. The race of the father can influence fatherhood involvement due to cultural norms and expectations related to masculinity and parental roles. For instance, ethnographic research like that of Barry Hewlett's among the Aka of central Africa shows a high level of paternal affection and involvement, with fathers spending a substantial part of their day in close physical proximity to their children.
The age of children also plays a significant role in shaping the nature and extent of fatherhood involvement. Fathers may engage differently with children based on the child's developmental needs and interests. In some societies, fathers are more involved with their sons in activities perceived as gender-appropriate, which can include sports. Furthermore, research suggests that children, particularly boys, benefit from closer proximity to their fathers after events such as divorce, as it can lead to reduced aggression and better adjustment.
Changes in family structures and social attitudes towards parenthood also affect fatherhood involvement. There has been an increase in single fathers and non-traditional family arrangements, which has led to different dynamics and variations in parental involvement. Moreover, economic factors, such as control over family finances, have been shown to influence spending on child-related needs, which indirectly reflects parental involvement.