Becoming a parent can be an overwhelming experience. After all, welcoming a newborn into this world can impact one’s life in more ways than one can imagine—not just for mothers, but for fathers too. Human men are among a select group of only 10 percent of all mammals that provide direct care and nurturing for their offspring, joining the league of elephants, orangutans, sea lions and seals. We often talk about the impact fathers have on their children’s lives. But do we think about the remarkable influence children have on their fathers? Research indicates that a man’s own idea of masculinity expands during his transition to fatherhood, as does his ability to form rewarding human connections.
A new father’s body goes through major hormonal changes once his baby arrives. A review of studies from Princeton University found that new fathers have a surge in oestrogen and oxytocin, creating a network in the brain equipped for bonding, vigilance and motivation. Another study by researchers at the Northwestern University in Chicago, Illinois shows that becoming a father leads to a sharp decline in testosterone (the macho hormone) as soon as their nurturing instincts kick in.
Fatherhood is known to make men introspect on their sense of purpose. Focussing on the needs of their little one—physically, emotionally and financially—sets men up for the lifelong commitment of being a father. More often than not, men do change for the better after becoming fathers.
This Father’s Day, we spoke to a few fathers about their unique life experiences of fatherhood. We hope these perspectives provide deeper insight into what it means to be a father. Wishing a Happy Father’s Day to all the dads out there!
How has becoming a father changed you?
Ashish Cecil Murmu: Fatherhood for me started the day my wife told me we are going to have a baby. When my child came into this world, I felt a sense of responsibility that I had missed out on for a greater part of my life. My finances started to fall into place, the quantity of family time gradually went up, and most importantly, my bond with my wife and my child became stronger.
Debroop Das: Fatherhood has changed the entire structure of my life. When I first took my daughter in my lap, I knew that this person meant the world to me. Giving her the best of everything is my prime responsibility now. As a new father, you start a new phase in your life—probably the best one. You mature with every passing day and enjoy being a hero in your child’s eyes.
Rohan Choudhury: Becoming a father was a life-changing experience for me. Not only did it make me more responsible, but it also opened my eyes to the social values I want to inculcate in my child as he grows up. My constant thought process is how to make him a person who respects and loves everyone. Becoming a father has made me more patient and resilient, and a person who discovers the true meaning of unadulterated and innocent love every morning.
Hridayesh Bhattacharjee: To be honest, after I became a father, I became more responsible as a person. I have started to take fewer risks. Now I spend more time at home playing with my daughter, creating memories and enjoying cuddles. I listen to her endless questions and try to answer them patiently. I feel I have become more patient and affectionate not only towards my kid but towards others too.
Ashish HP: Nothing has remained the same for me after becoming a father. Most of my life decisions in the last two years have been based on one major factor—what impact it will have on my son. Fatherhood has changed the way I see things around me. Not to exaggerate, but with the amount of joy he has brought in, I have started appreciating life as a whole, which for me is a major change.
As a new father, you start a new phase in your life—probably the best one.
Fatherhood brings about significant changes in men’s lives, leading to increased responsibility, stronger family bonds, and a shift in perspective.
Studies indicate that new fathers experience hormonal changes, including increased levels of oestrogen and oxytocin, promoting bonding, vigilance, and motivation.
Fatherhood prompts men to focus on their child’s physical, emotional, and financial needs, leading to personal growth and positive change.
Fatherhood brings increased responsibility, emotional growth, and the opportunity to positively impact one’s child’s life, fostering a deeper sense of purpose and fulfillment.
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