Unveiling the Fatherless Phenomenon in Indonesia: Understand the Impact on Children and Solutions for Addressing It!

The Shiro Corporation Fatherlessness refers to the absence of a father's presence in a child's growth and development. According to Jawa Pos, Indonesia ranks as the 3rd highest fatherlessness country.

This phenomenon can be caused by several factors such as divorce, death, as well as the work demands of a father.

In addition, the fatherless factor can also come from other factors. As cited from the FKM Universitas Airlangga website, the strong patriarchal culture and the minimal responsibility of a father also play a very significant role in this fatherless phenomenon.

A child has the right to receive equal presence from both father and mother. Besides being the provider, the father's role should also involve accompanying the child's growth and development, serving as a role model, and providing protection for the child.

Impact of Fatherlessness on Children

The absence of a father has a very significant impact on a child's development in various aspects, both psychological, emotional, and academic.

According to the Journal of Psychoeducation and Counseling, the absence of a father has a significant impact on a child's socio-emotional aspects. When a father does not accompany his child during adolescence, the child tends to have low self-esteem and experience negative emotions such as loneliness and stress.

As a result, the child will have difficulty interacting with others, such as in collaborating or making friends.

In addition, children who experience the phenomenon of being fatherless are also vulnerable to regression in academic achievements. According to the Universitas Airlangga FKM website, the figure of a father plays an important role in providing support, guidance, and motivation so that children can achieve academic success.

Solution for Parents in Handling the Phenomenon of Fatherlessness

The most important thing in dealing with the fatherless phenomenon is to increase the role of parents, especially the father. According to the Shafiq.id page, parents need to be able to collaborate to increase the role of fathers more so that children do not 'lose' the figure of their father.

Spending a lot of time with the child and increasing communication interactions can make the child feel the presence of their father.

In addition, the figure of the father must also understand his role by directly accompanying his child's development.

If the father is absent due to death and divorce, it is best to seek a replacement figure such as a grandfather, uncle, or other family members who can help the child meet the role vacancy.

Finally, to minimize the psychological impacts of being fatherless, professional handling such as by psychologists and therapists is the appropriate solution for children.