7/19/2026
I recently came across an explanation on the Chinese internet for why the crime rate is so high in the United States: 缺爹 (father absence). I did some research on this.
Here's what I found:
Father absence is a significant social issue in the United States. Approximately 1 in 4 American children (18.2 million) live without a biological, adoptive, or stepfather in the home—one of the highest rates among developed countries.
The problem is especially prevalent in the Southern states, with Mississippi having the highest rate. Among major U.S. cities, New York, Chicago, and Newark have historically ranked among those with the highest proportions of fatherless families.
Research consistently shows that father absence is strongly associated with a wide range of social challenges.
Children growing up without a father in the home are, on average, FOUR times more likely to live in poverty, TWICE as likely to drop out of high school, and face higher risks of behavioral problems, mental health issues, homelessness, substance abuse, juvenile delinquency, and teenage pregnancy.
These findings suggest that father absence is an important risk factor that often intersects with all kinds of social and economic disadvantages later in life.
Overall, the research underscores the importance of having an involved father in a child's life. While no single factor determines a child's future, ultimately, an engaged father can serve as an important protection against many adverse outcomes later in life.
A reader’s comment: “… 像咱们这样的家庭， 没有父亲的陪伴可能也不会产生问题儿童。但对父亲来说是一大精神和情绪价值的损失。 我父亲就是如此，他工作忙，忽视我们，老年后很后悔，直到有了孙辈享受天伦之乐才有所弥补。 “