Abstract

SILVA, Mário Sérgio. Evolution of fatherhood and individual development in childhood in Paraná. Rev. psicopedag. [online]. 2025, vol.42, n.128, pp.243-261.  Epub Sep 12, 2025. ISSN 0103-8486.  https://doi.org/10.51207/2179-4057.20250034.

This study investigated the evolution of parental roles and their impact on children’s socio-emotional development, highlighting the importance of the father’s active involvement in family life. A compre hensive qualitative analysis was carried out based on semi-structured interviews with 19 families in the state of Paraná, Brazil, focusing on the perceptions of both Adults and their experiences as children. The data revealed key themes, such as the complementary role of the father, family communication and its impact on child well-being. It was observed that while women have evolved significantly in educational and professional terms, men have faced challenges in keeping up with these changes, resulting in a reconfiguration of family dynamics. The research identified that the active participation of fathers is crucial for the socio-emotional development of children, providing a more balanced and healthy family environment. However, a research gap was identified: the need to further explore how differences in gender, social class and culture influence parental roles and their consequences for child development. This understanding is essential for improving family intervention policies and practices that are sensitive to the diversity of family experiences. In addition, the study suggests that women’s overload, due to men’s failure to adapt to new roles, can negatively affect family balance and child development. It is concluded that public policies and support programs should be developed to promote greater gender equality and balanced parenting styles, with a view to harmonious child development.

Keywords : Evolution of Women; Balanced Parenting Styles; Gender Equality; Healthy Family Dynamics; Harmonious Child Development.

        · abstract in Portuguese     · text in Portuguese     · Portuguese ( pdf )