Meaning of Father Hunger: How to Deal with Fatherlessness

VIVA – Father hunger is the feeling of fatherlessness both physically and psychologically in childhood. This condition will affect the child's growth and development, character, self-confidence, and the way the child relates as an adult. 

This term was first introduced by Margo Maine, a psychologist who studied the relationship between eating disorders and the absence of a father figure.

According to a 2007 UNICEF report on the well-being of children in economically developed countries, children in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom (UK) rank very low in terms of social and emotional well-being. Many theories have been put forward to explain the poor state of children, particularly child poverty, race, and social class. 

However, father hunger can lead to a variety of issues, including low self-esteem, difficulties in forming healthy relationships, anxiety, depression, and substance abuse. It can also result in a strong desire for male attention and approval, as well as a tendency to seek out relationships with older men.

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Ilustrasi ayah dan anak.

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• U-Report

In fact, the two main structural threats to the presence of fathers in children's lives are divorce and childbearing out of wedlock. In many cases, fathers are inadvertently relegated by family courts to the role of "helper parent" instead of the active caregiver.

Meanwhile, most fathers today are interested in experiencing the joys and challenges of parenthood, deriving satisfaction from their parental role, and consider active and involved fatherhood to be a core component of their self-identity.

While parents, in general, are not supported as parents by our social institutions, divorced fathers, in particular, are often belittled, disparaged, and forcibly removed from their children's lives. 

Dealing with fatherlessness can be a challenging experience, but there are steps that individuals can take that may be helpful: 

It can be helpful to seek out other positive male roles models, such as uncles, grandfathers, coaches, mentors, or community leaders, who can provide guidance, support, and a sense of stability.

Joining a support group for individuals who have experienced fatherlessness can help provide a sense of community and understanding.

Therapy can be a useful tool in dealing with the emotional and psychological impact of fatherlessness. A therapist can provide a safe and supportive space to explore feelings of loss, abandonment, and other related issues.

Individuals can use the absence of a positive male role model as an opportunity to focus on personal growth and development. This may involve setting goals, pursuing interests, and building a strong sense of self.

Connecting with others who have experienced fatherlessness can help build a sense of community and find common ground.

Building a support network of friends and family members who can provide emotional support and encouragement can help deal with the challenges of fatherlessness.

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Dealing with fatherlessness can be a challenging experience, but there are steps that individuals can take that may be helpful: