Intentional Fathering
Contributed by Focus on the Family Malaysia
The pandemic has hit us hard, especially families. Many parents are grappling with multiple roles while staying home, acting as teachers, disciplinarians, and friends (sometimes enemies!). Parents and children are forced to adapt to an evolving normal, and it is no wonder that parents are finding it difficult to cope.
“I am not able to find a babysitter to care for my 5-year old. I am really stressed because I just can’t focus on my work.”
Lee Wee Min, Focus on the Family Asia Regional Director, overheard the above from two fathers who were in a supermarket recently. It made him empathise afresh with parents and especially fathers, who are struggling to juggle work and parenting responsibilities now that both worlds have met under one roof.
The COVID-19 Family Life Study* research by Hamad bin Khalifa University (Qatar), in partnership with Focus on the Family Asia, explored the effects of the coronavirus pandemic on family life across cultures globally.
This study revealed that Malaysian fathers, in particular, experienced higher levels of severe and extremely severe depression, stress, and anxiety during the pandemic in comparison to mothers.
Wee Min added, “The research also showed that parents relied on religious beliefs and acceptance as coping mechanisms throughout this period. Our faith in God and spiritual disciplines such as prayer provides a foundation for us to weather the storms of life.”
To help families thrive in this tense environment, fathers can play an important role. He suggests this strategy to create the right atmosphere: inject fun in the family. During a time as volatile as this, a little fun and relaxed spirit encourages communication and builds relationships within the family.
The book of Proverbs reminds us, “A cheerful heart is a good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.” Injecting fun does not have to be expensive, lavish, or even outdoors (especially now!). All you need is some creativity, intentionality, and laughter. How about a water fight while washing the car, camping out in your garden, or indoor badminton!
“Having Fun Is A Strategy” is one of the seven strategies Wee Min shares in his latest book, Intentional Fathering: 7 Strategies To Become More Intentional In Your Fatherhood Journey, which he wrote during the Covid-19 Movement Control Order (MCO). Explore the joys and challenges of intentional fathering and how these can reap great benefits for both a father and his family.
About Focus on the Family Malaysia
Focus on the Family Malaysia (FOFM) is a not-for-profit organisation established in 1997 and dedicated to helping families thrive. With the vision of enriched families and communities nationwide, FoFM is committed to nurturing, supporting, and protecting time-honoured values and the institution of the family. For more information about the organisation and the work that they do, please visit family.org.my.
