Research: Fathers Influence Self-Determination in Teens

In the journey from childhood to adolescence, one of the most important traits a young person can develop is self-determination, which is the ability to make their own choices, set goals, and feel confident in their decisions. A recent study from China sheds light on an often-overlooked factor in this development: the role of fathers.

What the Study Looked At

The study involved 916 middle school students in Shandong Province, aged 11 to 15. Researchers set out to understand how different parenting styles—specifically from fathers—influence a child's ability to become self-determined.

Rather than looking at parenting as a general concept, the researchers focused on two distinct types of control that parents can use:

Psychological control, which includes guilt-tripping, love withdrawal, or making children feel bad to control their behaviour.
Behavioural control, which refers to setting rules, monitoring activities, and enforcing boundaries in a clear and consistent way.

Key Findings in Simple Terms

Too Much Emotional Pressure from Dads Can Backfire
When fathers use psychological control—like making a child feel guilty for their choices—it can hurt a child’s ability to develop independence and confidence. This effect was even stronger in boys than in girls.
Setting Rules the Right Way Can Help Kids Thrive
In contrast, when fathers used behavioural control—such as asking where the child is going or setting curfews—kids were more likely to feel self-assured and capable of making good decisions. This shows that structure, when done with care, can actually support autonomy.
Moms vs. Dads: A Different Kind of Influence
Although mothers often play a bigger daily role in child-rearing, the study found that the father's influence on self-determination is unique and significant. Even when the mother’s behaviour was taken into account, the father’s role still stood out.
Boys Are More Affected by Their Fathers
The study also showed that boys are more sensitive to how their fathers parent them. This could be due to cultural expectations in China, where boys often face higher demands for academic and social success, and may also be more likely to emulate their fathers.

Why This Matters

Self-determination is more than just a buzzword. It’s a key part of growing up to become a capable, confident adult. Research shows that self-determined teens do better in school, have healthier relationships, and are better at solving problems.

In Chinese society, where the father is traditionally seen as the authority figure, this research helps us rethink how that influence plays out. It suggests that fathers need to be especially mindful of how they exert control. While setting boundaries is helpful, using emotional tactics like guilt can do more harm than good.

What Parents Can Learn

For Fathers:

Be present and involved. Your influence is significant, even if you don’t spend as much time with your child as their mother does.
Set clear, consistent rules. Explain why they matter, so children learn to make good decisions on their own.
Avoid guilt and manipulation. These tactics can harm your child’s emotional development, especially in boys.

For Mothers:

Encourage fathers to take an active role, not just in setting rules but also in emotional support.
Co-parenting is most effective when both parents bring balanced, respectful approaches to discipline.

For Educators and Policymakers:

Parenting programmes should include targeted support for fathers.
Schools can play a role in promoting positive father involvement, especially in cultures where mothers are typically more active in daily caregiving.

Limitations of Self-Reported Data

Although the study offers valuable insights, it's important to remember that it was based on self-reported data from students, not from the parents themselves. Also, because the study focused on urban families in China, the findings may not apply universally, particularly in rural areas or in other cultures.

Nonetheless, this study underscores a powerful but often underestimated truth: dads matter—a lot. When fathers use behavioural control thoughtfully and avoid emotional manipulation, they can play a crucial role in helping their children grow into independent, confident adults. In a rapidly changing society where traditional roles are shifting, this research provides a timely reminder that modern fatherhood is as much about guidance as it is about authority.