What are the advantages and disadvantages of growing up with out your real dad?

Question

I'm 15 and my dad left my mom when I was 3 months until she got married again when I was9 to this total jackass so he doesn't treat me like his daughter. So what are the advantages and disadvantages of not having your real dad?

Answer 1

I won't know either...just navigate life the best you can.

Answer 2

The main advantage is that if he were a bad person, he is out of your life. No dad is better than one who is an abuser.

The main disadvantage is the tendency to romanticize what life would be like with Dad around--"He would let me stay out later" "He would let me hang around with the crowd"--when really you have no idea if he would or not.

I'm sorry that your stepfather is not a good father. Unfortunately, we don't get to pick our family. Just do the best you can, and make a vow, here and now, to try and do better by your own children.

Answer 3

I think I did good without mine. I mean if he doesn't want to be around, you can do pretty good by yourself/with your stepdad. Just remember, he's missing out on something special. This can be an advantage: you take a different outlook on life, you see things differently and help others. A disadvantage could be you start getting into trouble, acting out, doing drugs, running with numerous boys, but as long as someone's there to guide you like your mom, grandparent, step dad, etc. you'll be alright.

Answer 4

My parents were married until I was seventeen, but my dad took himself out of the parenting game when I was about twelve. I think puberty scared him off. Sharing genes with someone doesn't guarantee a good relationship.

Answer 5

Im sorry to hear that.. Well, having a real dad is... lovely? You know, you should talk to your current dad..

Answer 6

that I could have my freedom,
and so did my mother,
to do what we want to do,
that was the advantage

no stupid men will ever
tell me what to do

Answer 7

Either of them can buy you a tuna fish.