hasle027: April 2012 Archives

While there are many topics learned this semester that will always stay with me, something I found particularly interesting was the durability bias. The durability bias, as defined in our textbook, is the belief that both our good and bad moods will last longer than they do. This concept particularly stands out to me because I can think of so many examples where this is true.

A classic example is a child on Christmas morning with their presents. For the next week Santa's present might be the greatest, most amazing thing ever; however, two or three weeks later the excitement will likely have worn off. I am sure many people can imagine this scenario, or one like it, in their own lives.

Just as I can think of many Christmases where I thought I would never have a better toy, I can think of many examples of thinking my life was completely ruined by something. At the age of seven I thought I would never get over moving to a new neighborhood. Separated from my best friend and neighbor of six years by at least eight miles, my life was surely over. Again I was tricked by the durability bias. This concept will definitely be one I remember, or hopefully at least, the next time I have a life-ruining event.

In chapter ten, the authors address "The Role of the Father" in families and children's development. They pin point four crucial differences between the role of the mother and the role of the father. One, fathers are generally not as affectionate towards their children compared to mothers. Two, fathers generally spend less time with their children than mothers. Three, fathers tend to engage in more physical play with their children than mothers. Four, children generally choose their father over their mother as a playmate. These are all important differences that I believe emphasize the importance of both parents to be present in a child's life. While there are many strong mothers who single-handedly support and raise their children, they cannot completely replace the role of a father. In this article, Mr. Hollis comments on the decline of the traditional family and the role of fathers in recent decades. I found his article appealing because he too agrees that the role of a father cannot be easily replaced. Overall, while I understand there are often circumstances that prevent a father from being a part of his child's life, I think the child is truly at a loss for not having that relationship their life and vice versa.