The term “fatherless” is increasingly used to describe a growing social concern in Indonesia — children who grow up without the presence, support, or involvement of their fathers. According to news circulating on https://pafikutaikab.org/ while the phrase often brings to mind broken families or divorce, psychologists say the issue goes deeper. Economic hardship and job scarcity are becoming major factors driving emotional and physical absence among fathers, creating what experts call “silent fatherlessness.”
The Economic Strain on Family Dynamics
According to Dr. Rini Astuti, a family psychologist at the University of Indonesia, financial instability can disrupt not only household economics but also emotional connections within families. “When fathers face job loss or unstable income, they often experience a deep sense of shame and inadequacy,” she explains. “Many men still see their role as providers — when that identity is challenged, it affects how they relate to their children and partners.”
This emotional strain can manifest in two ways: withdrawal or overcompensation. Some fathers become distant, avoiding family interactions to escape feelings of guilt or failure. Others, overwhelmed by pressure, may become irritable or even aggressive. “The result,” Dr. Rini adds, “is emotional disconnection — a family that lives together physically but feels fatherless in spirit.”
The Hidden Toll of Job Scarcity
Indonesia’s labor market challenges have intensified since the pandemic, especially in rural and semi-urban areas. Many fathers migrate to larger cities or even overseas in search of work, leaving their families behind. Although this is done out of necessity, it often leads to prolonged separation that affects both parents and children.
“Children may have a father who sends money home but isn’t emotionally present,” says Dr. Dwi Nugraha, a sociologist specializing in family studies. “Over time, kids may feel abandoned or grow up without a strong paternal figure, even if the father’s intention was to provide.”
Long-distance communication can help bridge the gap, but experts note that emotional intimacy is hard to maintain when physical presence is missing. As a result, many children struggle with feelings of insecurity, lack of guidance, and behavioral problems during adolescence.
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Mental Health and Masculinity Pressure
Cultural expectations also play a role in perpetuating fatherlessness. In many Indonesian households, men are raised to believe their value lies in their ability to earn money. When unemployment strikes, they may experience anxiety, depression, or even identity crises.
“Few fathers seek help because of the stigma around mental health,” Dr. Rini notes. “They internalize their stress, which often leads to emotional detachment. Unfortunately, the family — especially the children — ends up paying the emotional price.”
This psychological burden can turn into a cycle: fathers struggling with economic pressure raise children who may develop low emotional resilience, increasing the likelihood of family dysfunction in the next generation.
Breaking the Cycle
Experts agree that addressing fatherlessness requires both social and structural change. Strengthening mental health support for men, expanding job opportunities, and promoting shared parenting roles can make a difference.
Dr. Dwi emphasizes the need for open communication at home. “Fathers should remember that their emotional presence matters as much as financial contribution,” he says. “Even simple acts — listening to a child’s story, helping with homework, or expressing affection — can protect children from feeling emotionally abandoned.”
As Indonesia continues to recover economically, the challenge remains not just to create jobs, but to help fathers stay connected — both financially and emotionally. After all, a father’s true role extends far beyond providing; it’s about being present, supportive, and emotionally available for the family he loves.
