The impact of fatherhood goes far beyond the commonly held roles of provision and protection, serving as a crucial foundation for a boy’s emotional balance, social conduct, and spiritual grounding, according to Dr. Joshua Oppong, a consultant with the faith-based organisation New Africa Concept.
Speaking during a programme held by the Church of Pentecost’s School Outreach Ministry to mark International Boy Child Day, Dr. Oppong explained that many of the behavioural and emotional challenges faced by young males today stem from the absence of a consistent and nurturing father figure in their lives.
He noted that without this presence, boys often experience confusion about their identity and a distorted view of masculinity. “Masculinity, without proper guidance, is often misinterpreted,” he said in an interview with the Ghana News Agency. Rather than fostering responsibility, empathy, and resilience, some boys gravitate toward aggression, emotional suppression, or exaggerated toughness in an effort to define manhood.
Dr. Oppong raised concerns about the growing influence of social media and peer groups in shaping young boys’ understanding of what it means to be a man. “Many turn to social media, which too often glorifies toxic masculinity—highlighting dominance, materialism, and emotional detachment,” he said, warning that such exposure encourages risky behaviour and deepens internal struggles with identity.
He further emphasised that fatherlessness doesn’t just affect emotional or social development; it also undermines spiritual growth. According to Dr. Oppong, fathers are meant to serve as moral compasses within the family, demonstrating values such as honesty, discipline, and faith. Without this guidance, boys may find it difficult to establish a strong ethical foundation or form meaningful spiritual connections.
“The absence of a father figure weakens a boy’s understanding of purpose and accountability, often leading to feelings of emptiness or resentment later in life,” he added.
Despite the challenges, Dr. Oppong remains optimistic. He stressed that with community support, mentorship, and intentional guidance, boys raised without fathers can still become emotionally stable and morally grounded men. He called for a collective effort to provide positive role models and environments that nurture the full potential of the boy child.
