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UK Wedding News

12/06/2013

TV Shows 'Giving Fathers A Bad Name'

Fathers are said to be consistently misrepresented as 'useless' and 'lazy' in televisions shows, according to a new survey.

The findings, which have been released by Netmums, looked at the opinions of 1,650 mothers and 500 fathers and found that children in particular are being bombarded with the 'casual contempt' of men. With the stereotype continuing through to adult programmes, many found the negative impression continues to be reinforced.

A number of respondents also admitted that it amounted to a form of discrimination against fathers and it would not be tolerated if it was women being portrayed in the same light.

According to the report by Netmums, children's television programmes said to be guilty of the stereotype included Peppa Pig, The Simpsons and The Flintstones.

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Looking at adult programmes, sitcoms including Outnumbered, Shameless and My Family were found to continue the unfair image.

When asked if the male fathers portrayed in the shows reflected any relation to their real-life contribution to family life, 93% of those surveyed said no. More than a quarter attacked the 'subtle form of discrimination', with a fifth saying mothers would not accept a similar portrayal.

More than half also agreed that society was becoming "more appreciative of how important a dad's role is", with fathers now "much closer to their kids than in the past".

Nine in 10 dads said they felt they were working harder than their own fathers to be a good parent, with two thirds stating they were proud to work harder and support their family. A similar amount said they are also "happier and more settled" than before they had children. One in eight quit smoking, while one in 30 overcame a drug habit after learning they were to become a father.

Despite the positive efforts, a third of parents claimed mothers sill continue to be viewed as more important than their male partners.

Netmums founder Siobhan Freegard said: "The types of jokes aimed at dads would be banned if they were aimed at women, ethnic minorities or religious groups. Some people claim it’s just a joke but there is nothing amusing about taking away good role models.

"Academic studies show children with involved fathers do far better at school, have a much lower chance of getting involved in crime and have better mental health, so we should be celebrating and encouraging what dads do."

(JP/CD)

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"Fathers are said to be consistently misrepresented as 'useless' and 'lazy' in televisions shows, according to a new survey."