This post originally appeared at https://wifamilycouncil.org/radio/marriage-and-fatherhood-the-solution-for-men-seeking-purpose/
In an article for the Institute for Family Studies, Samuel Wilkinson, Medical Director for the Yale Depression Research Program, proposes marriage and fatherhood as solutions for the growing number of young men who lack purpose and meaning. A key finding in Wilkinson’s cited research shows that when men are married and involved in their children’s lives, they are more likely to work full-time. Wilkinson argues that “[this finding] demonstrates something deeply intuitive yet often overlooked: that purpose is a powerful motivator for productivity.”
This research reinforces God’s grand design for men. He designed them to be productive protectors. When men feel needed—when they are responsible for someone beyond themselves—they often rise to the occasion. Marriage and family give men the very best “someone beyond themselves,” resulting in the direction and purpose they need to lead fulfilling lives.