Is The ‘Hapless’ Dad Stereotype A Self-Fulfilling Prophecy?

In real life, shit dads – proper, proper shit dads – aren’t funny. They may be absent, neglectful, or abusive. And, perhaps because of that, people seem to have a low bar for what we expect from all fathers. The “slightly rubbish” dad gets a, “bless him, he’s trying” pass for not being actively terrible. If you’re present and taking an interest? You’re golden.