Diminishing Dads

Why Jokes About Dads Aren’t Funny for Kids

Let’s be honest—dads are often the butt of the joke.

In pop culture, we’re portrayed as the joyful idiot, the bumbling sidekick, the lovable dunce. It’s rare to see a father depicted as strong, wise, emotionally present, and competent.

This cultural comedy surrounding fatherhood might seem harmless at first—until it starts showing up everywhere. At work. …