New BBC documentary called Biology of Dads.

'Every child needs a father' is a phrase heard often enough, but is there any evidence to support it? In this enlightening documentary, child psychologist Laverne Antrobus goes on a quest to discover why a dad's relationship with his offspring is so important. She uncovers fascinating new research which is shedding light onto the science of fatherhood.

Laverne meets a new dad who is experiencing Couvade Syndrome, a condition sometimes known as 'sympathetic pregnancy'. She is keen to explore if the symptoms - which are similar to those felt by pregnant women, such as nausea and sickness - might be physiological as well as psychological. The dad takes a blood test shortly after the birth of his third child and Antrobus discovers that hormones could be the cause of his symptoms: possibly nature's way of 'priming' him to become a more nurturing father.

Laverne then meets one of the UK's leading experts in the father's role within the family. While observing father and toddler play in his lab, she finds out how the rough-and-tumble play they witness is classic 'dad behaviour'. It is believed that this type of fatherly play is essential in teaching toddlers the boundaries of aggression and discipline.

In the final investigation, Antrobus looks into recent research which claims that men who have a good relationship with their daughters can influence the kind of husband the daughters choose. The study also found that girls whose fathers were absent during their formative years tend to reach puberty sooner and age quicker. Laverne recruits a team of married women to take part in one final, fascinating experiment.

A must see for both dads and moms.

This is really interesting. Particularly in light of the recent article in the Atlantic that posited "The End of Men."

Is there a link where we could learn more about this doc, and maybe even watch it?

Thanks for bringing this to our attention.

I know our readership will be interested in seeing this. I could not get BBC to play in US due to copyright type issues. Looking forward to it getting US distribution. If anyone finds a link let us know!

Troy I have a copy in my drop box. If you set up a drop box at www.dropbox.com. and send me you email address that is linked to your drop box I will link you to a copy that you boys can download and see.

The whole thing is on youtube.

BBC - Biology Of Dads 1/6


BBC - Biology Of Dads 2/6
www.youtube.com/watch#!v=I7Sw9Y0Igl8&feature=related

BBC - Biology Of Dads 3/6
www.youtube.com/watch#!v=meP8-j7hEpQ&feature=related


BBC - Biology Of Dads 4/6
www.youtube.com/watch#!v=v6PeT9gYX-s&feature=related

BBC - Biology Of Dads 5/6
www.youtube.com/watch#!v=Rd2a9L9jB4k&feature=related

BBC - Biology Of Dads 6/6
www.youtube.com/watch#!v=GkpicnihoD4&feature=related

Thanks FSP and Matt - I will check it out. You think I would have found it on Youtube. Doh.

Its really interesting and informative. Every responsible father must read this article. Thanks for sharing this.


Regards
Tony Dad
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New Dad