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We Love Dad, Too; We Just Don't Spend as Much

But that doesn't mean we don't love him as much

By Wesley Oliver, Newser Staff

Posted Jun 21, 2009 9:00 AM CDT

(Newser) – It’s a good thing that it’s the thought that counts, because research shows that while moms are lavished with gifts on Mother’s Day, fathers, by comparison, tend to be short-changed on Father’s Day, the Washington Post says. Americans spend about $130 on their moms, $90.89 on dad. But experts insist the disparity doesn’t mean we love our dads any less.

Most people feel closer to mom than dad, explained one academic, and a greeting card industry rep said we often shy away from giving men sentimental cards for fear of making them uncomfortable. But one seventh-grader wasn’t shy about explaining his dad’s worth: “They give you a great time. They have less limits usually. They like to press the envelope.”

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Research and market surveys show that moms tend to be showered with gifts and attention on Mother's Day. Dads, not so much. (Shutter Stock)

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Most individuals probably feel they have a somewhat closer tie to their mothers than they do with their fathers, because they spend considerably more time with their mothers. - Lars Perner, assistant professor of clinical marketing, University of Southern California

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We Love Dad, Too; We Just Don't Spend as Much