Fathers matter. They matter in numerous domains of life. In families, fathers benefit children and co-parents alike. Communities, politics, and social institutions are all influenced by fathers. Because of these wide-ranging influences, there is considerable interest in developing social policies that increase paternal engagement at home. Yet our knowledge about the effects of different policies for improving father involvement is lacking.


In So Close, Yet So Far, Kevin Shafer explores fatherhood in Canada and the United States - two countries with many historical and cultural similarities, but very different approaches to family policy. Drawing from quantitative data and analysis, the book shows that Canadian fathers are outperforming their American counterparts across numerous dimensions of father involvement, including caregiving, warmth, and social support. Shafer suggests that paid family leave, universal healthcare, and direct, monthly child tax credits all play important roles in helping Canadian fathers actively engage with their children and families. So Close, Yet So Far provides a road map for understanding how to increase father involvement and engagement through public policies, community programs, and workplace characteristics.