Fathers influence their children's development in many ways, including financially and emotionally, but the literature revealing how and why is limited. This book brings together theoretical orientations and different disciplinary lenses to the study of how and why fathers matter for children's development. It challenges the commonly held view that fathers are only economic providers and points to the complex interplay between the love fathers have for their children and the money they have (or not) to support them. By integrating developmental science with economics, and drawing on real-life examples from qualitative research, the authors argue that fatherhood is a tale of two stories: love and money.

‘This book builds upon decades of scholarship and practice, offering a compelling framework that positions a father's love as a critical developmental asset. Cabrera and Mincy illuminate how emotionally engaged, responsive fathering fosters children's social, emotional, cognitive, and academic growth—especially in communities facing socioeconomic adversity. Their work validates what many of us in the field have long advocated: that love, presence, and emotional connection are as vital as financial provision in shaping thriving children and families. I highly endorse and recommend this book to policymakers, researchers, and practitioners. It provides actionable insights for designing inclusive policies, advancing research on paternal engagement, and implementing practical strategies that strengthen father-child relationships. This is more than a book—it is a roadmap for empowering fathers and building resilient communities where every child has the opportunity to flourish.’

Jeffery M. Johnson - President, National Partnership for Community Leadership

‘At last! A book about fatherhood which recognizes and explores fathers’ roles as providers of both love and financial support. For too long, scholars have written as though those were alternative or competitive roles, rather than complementary. This work provides a timely corrective.’

Michael E. Lamb - Emeritus Professor of Psychology and Emeritus Fellow, University of Cambridge, UK

‘I wholeheartedly endorse this powerful and insightful book. It masterfully bridges economics and developmental science to highlight the essential role of fathers in children's lives. It challenges outdated narratives and demonstrates why investing in fatherhood is crucial to strengthening families and communities.’

Derek Phillips - Founder and CEO of Real Dads Network

‘Cabrera and Mincy have accomplished something very rare in science and policy: They surmounted a longstanding disciplinary divide by illuminating how and why fathers matter from the lenses of developmental psychology and economics. Their thoughtful integration of science and policy is straightforward and refreshingly honest. They evaluate what is known about the ‘money story’ (how fathers contribute financially) and the ‘love story’ (how fathers contribute emotionally), but also critique the gaps of each field. This uniquely insightful pairing of stories raises the bar for the next generation of scholars who seek to expand the breadth of knowledge on fathers, children, and families.’

Catherine S. Tamis-LeMonda - Professor of Applied Psychology, New York University, USA