In my 30 years as a licensed professional counselor and 16 years leading and coaching GirlDads, I’ve discovered that fathers don’t always know why they really matter in the lives of their girls. 

[If you’re a mom or a daughter, you can pass this along to Dad to let him know SIX specific reasons his presence matters]. 

And these things aren’t just my opinion—they’re all backed by research!

Daughters who feel connected to their dads experience the following:

1. Less anxiety and depression.
   Dad, if you want your daughter to be emotionally stable, be mindful that you play a big part in helping her grow this skill set. When she sinks emotionally, she needs kindness, understanding, and patience from you through her ups and downs.
   
2. Do better in school.
   Dad, if your daughter knows you’re in her corner while she’s learning, and you give her grace to fail without belittling her when she falls, your consistent support will go far in helping her to achieve her academic goals.
   
3. Greater self-esteem.
   When a girl is confident, she stands out in the way she carries herself, communicates, and interacts. And much of the time these are girls who have a solid relationship with their fathers. When a dad affirms his daughter’s worth and value, she’ll expect nothing less from others…and herself.
   
4. Better body image.
   Dad, your affirmation helps your daughter see herself through your eyes. Highlight her positive qualities and never compare, criticize, or tease her for her weight, size, etc., even if you think you’re being funny.
   
5. Clear dating relationship boundaries.
   Dad, your bond with your daughter is one–if not THE BEST–defensive strategy against “oncoming traffic,” if you know what I mean! The more connected your daughter feels to you, the less she will go looking for love in all the wrong places.
   
6. Healthier relationships with guys.
   Dad, your unconditional love lets your daughter know she never has to fear rejection from you. When she has the freedom to freely express herself to you, she’ll transfer those relational skills to her interactions with boys. 

There you have it: SIX factors that show why you as a dad have value to your daughter, even if she’s not always aware of it.

Whether you’re in a season where you’re closer than ever or there’s distance between you, these SIX realities underscore that fathers are very important to the health and well-being of their daughters. 

And though you may not always hear positive words about how important and valuable you are as a dad, today I’m giving you words of affirmation and cheering you on.

Go Dad!

Michelle Watson Canfield, PhD, LPC hosts The Dad Whisperer Podcast and is author of Let’s Talk: Conversation Starters for Dads and Daughters. You can find out more about her at drmichellewatson.com.