This week on I Am Dad Podcast, guest host Dr. Matisa Wilbon of the Moynihan Institute for Fatherhood Research and Policy takes the host chair for a powerful conversation with fellow institute colleague Dr. David Miller, a researcher focused on the mental health and social development of Black men, fathers, and families.
Drawing from his academic research and personal experience as a father of two daughters and a son, Dr. Miller explores a topic that has received far too little scholarly attention: the sacred bond between Black fathers and daughters.
Their conversation examines the emotional, psychological, and cultural importance of father involvement in daughters’ lives—even when fathers do not live in the same household. Dr. Miller shares findings from interviews with non-residential fathers and daughters that reveal an important truth: daughters continue to need affirmation, guidance, and presence from their fathers well into adulthood.
Together, Wilbon and Miller discuss:
- Why the father–daughter relationship is critical to girls’ mental health • The myth of the “absent father” narrative • The emotional toll on fathers who are separated from their children • How fathers shape daughters’ self-esteem and identity • Why dads must talk to daughters about relationships, race, and beauty • The importance of racial pride and positive affirmations from fathers • Co-parenting challenges and policy barriers affecting father involvement • Why mental health support for fathers matters just as much as for children
The episode also addresses the uncomfortable but necessary conversations fathers must have with daughters about relationships, sexuality, safety, and self-worth. Dr. Miller argues that when fathers provide affirming messages about identity, beauty, and resilience, they help counter the harmful stereotypes Black girls face in society.
This conversation is not only about research—it is about healing, growth, and creating stronger relationships between fathers and daughters across generations.
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