A variety of research studies have indicated that fathers' availability and their leadership are vital to the healthy functioning of each individual in the family. One study showed that in 48 societies fathers assume an instrumental role in family life, while in only eight societies is fathering predominately an expressive function. Occasionally, a father's personality does not lend itself toward effective human relationships with children. Some fathers are uncomfortable in the decision-making role, in conflict strategy, and in taking the leadership reins. According to the literature, the ineffective, passive father is one who relinquishes the instrumental role. In all theories related to sex-role adjustment, the father is a particularly powerful influence on the son's masculine orientation. A girl's heterosexual relationships are strongly aligned with the kind of fathering that she experiences. The emotional, cognitive and social development of children are reported to be adversely affected by fathers' absence. Clearly, fathers' contributions are not as peripheral and indirect as was formerly believed. Strengthening fathers' preparation for their responsibility is urgent. Both the creative act of human life and the healthy nurturance of children require a mother and a father. (Author/RH)