 A survey conducted by Minnesota 's Department for Families and Children 's Services shows that men consider child care to be far more important than a <unk> . Of 600 dads surveyed , a majority said their most important role was to " show love and affection " to kids . " Safety and protection " came next , followed by " moral guidance , " " taking time to play , " and " teaching and encouraging . " " Financial care " finished last . Many men are now becoming more involved in their children 's lives , and because of that many men now have a better understanding of what life is like for their child growing up in modern society . Because fathers are immersed in their children 's lives , many of the <unk> " <unk> " attitudes and activities historically prescribed for children may be <unk> due to a more gender @-@ neutral parenting approach that focuses on promoting independence and emotional well being . This allows children , especially male children , to grow up with a greater capacity for empathy and less <unk> in attitudes pertaining to gender roles than would perhaps be the case in more traditionally @-@ structured households . 
