Synopsis by Gary da Silva
The article “The Fatherhood Crisis: Time for a New Look?” by Stephen Baskerville explores the issue of fatherlessness and argues that fathers are being unfairly targeted by government policies related to divorce and child support. Here are the key points on how fathers are targeted:
- No-Fault Divorce Laws: These laws, which allow one partner to end a marriage without the other’s consent, have led to a high rate of divorce. This has disproportionately affected fathers, as they are often the ones who want to maintain an intact family but are overruled by the legal system.
- Child Custody Bias: After a divorce, mothers are almost always awarded custody of the children. In South Africa Children are awarded to the mother in 91% of the cases, as advised by the Family Advocates responding affidavit in the Von Ginkle, Louw, Fabian et al case at the equality court. A father in South Africa Stands less than 1 out of 10 chance of being given primary care to his children. This means that fathers, who may desire to be involved in their children’s lives, are often left with limited visitation rights and less influence over their upbringing.
- Child Support Enforcement: The government has implemented strict child support enforcement measures, including wage garnishment and tax refund interceptions. These measures do not take individual circumstances into account and are financially crippling for fathers, some of whom are unable to meet the high child support payments mandated by inflexible rules.
- Myth of the Deadbeat Dad: Contrary to popular belief, most fathers do not voluntarily abandon their children. Between 6% and 7% of fathers fit the true definition of a deadbeat father.
50% of fathers describe themselves as totally alienated from their children, and an additional 24% of South African Fathers describe themselves as partially alienated from their children.
Dr Pinki Du Toit of the Synovil Centre South Africa says that mothers are responsible for between 85% and 90% of all Parental Alienation Syndrome perpetrated in South Africa.
Studies show that women initiate the majority (80% ) of divorces and that many fathers are unable to meet child support obligations due to financial constraints rather than willful neglect. - Government Intrusion: The government’s involvement in a family’s life increases significantly following a divorce. Family courts and social welfare agencies regulate noncustodial parents’ (usually fathers) involvement in their children’s lives. This includes mandatory psychological counselling at the father’s expense if they wish to see their children.
- Economic and Social Consequences: Fathers who are unable to meet child support obligations due to unrealistic demands face severe penalties, including imprisonment. This not only affects their ability to support their children but also exacerbates the problem by removing them from the workforce and increasing social stigma.
In summary, the article argues that current divorce and child support policies disproportionately target fathers, often portraying them as irresponsible or neglectful without considering the broader systemic issues and personal circumstances that contribute to the problem of fatherlessness.
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