Single Women Directory - Internet - $4.95 Cheap Domain Name Registration

Single Dads Wave Goodbye to 'Bachelor Syndrome' as Canadian Single Father Households Hit Record Highs

5/20/2004

Single Dads Wave Goodbye to 'Bachelor Syndrome' as Canadian Single Father Households Hit Record Highs

TORONTO, Ontario - Meet the new face of an emerging Canadian family unit…the single dad household. Over the last decade households headed by single fathers have increased by 50%* across the country. In fact, in the Greater Toronto Area these households currently make up 20%* of lone-parent families, a dramatic increase of 50%* from 10 years ago. The escalating number of single dad households represents a unique, new phenomenon; a once weekend custody arrangement has now been replaced with Canadian dads being appointed with more of a full-time family role. According to The Allied Network, Ontario's leading dating service, the single dad's increased presence in his children's lives has lead to a significant shift in his attitudes towards prioritizing social activities-the once again bachelor has abandoned the stereotypical carefree lifestyle in favour of long term companionship.

Over the last decade the lifestyle choices of many single fathers have been altered by the fact that children have gone from seeing their dads occasionally to now, splitting half of their time between moms and dads. This increased amount of quality dad-time is reflected in the way single fathers are viewing their priorities. "Single dads are no longer suffering from 'bachelor's syndrome', where the main interest was to look good and have fun, they are taking a more mature and thoughtful approach to social activities and, more importantly, the values of the individuals he associates with," comments Luci Parker, a senior consultant with The Allied Network. In looking for a companion, many fathers have discarded their youthful opinions about what makes someone attractive, placing less emphasis on physical attributes and focusing more on personal beliefs and values.

Finding the time, between sports practices and games, to fit in social activities that may lead to romance is very difficult, let alone search for a companion with desirable attributes. These time constraints, coupled with a more mature view of the qualities single dads are looking for have left them with a dilemma: how to balance their kids schedules, work and search for a meaningful companion. "In the last decade we have noticed an almost 70% increase in the number of single fathers seeking assistance in finding a special companion. Single dads have a unique criteria in that they aren't looking to go on numerous dates, instead they want to find a meaningful relationship with someone who may be willing to make a commitment not only to him, but his children as well," says Parker. An increasing number of single dads are choosing to participate in events and activities that involve individuals with similar interests about family and children. However, contrary to popular belief, single fathers are not looking for another mother for their children, but a companion who is sensitive to the children's needs and can compliment the family surroundings.

The number one quality a single father is searching for in a romantic companion is someone who respects that his children are his life. "For this reason, single dads are distancing themselves from the bachelor lifestyle. The former casual, carefree attitude has been replaced by a more focused relationship goal. Ultimately, this goal will result in rewarding experiences in balancing dating and family life," says Parker. It is clear that dads are saying bye to the bachelor lifestyle and welcoming a new outlook on family, life and love.

For over 10 years, The Allied Network has been providing highly personalized introductions to selective singles looking for a safe and effective way to meet the right person. With a client base of over 10,000 eligible, career-minded members, The Allied Network is Ontario's largest and most respected dating service. The Allied Network's commitment to personal attention, screening an "hands on" compatibility matching has led to overwhelming success with thousands of long-term relationships and marriages.