How Fathers Play a Part in Raising Daughters Who Become Feminists
Fathers play a powerful role in shaping their daughters, whether they realize it or not. A father is often a daughter’s first experience of male authority, protection, and leadership. Through him, she learns what it means to be valued by a man, what safety feels like, and how authority is meant to be exercised.
When this role is fulfilled with ihsan and taqwa, it creates security. When it is neglected, misused, or absent, confusion often follows.
Fathers play a part in raising daughters who later gravitate toward feminism when:
When fathers are emotionally absent, even if physically present, daughters grow up feeling unseen and unheard. A girl who never feels emotionally protected by her father often learns to rely only on herself. Independence becomes a defense, not a choice.
When fathers are harsh, critical, or controlling, authority becomes associated with fear instead of safety. A daughter raised under constant criticism or pressure may later reject all forms of male leadership, confusing abuse with authority itself.
When fathers misuse their power in the home—through anger, intimidation, neglect, or injustice—daughters internalize the belief that men cannot be trusted with responsibility. Feminism then appears to offer protection from male dominance rather than discernment between right and wrong leadership.
When fathers fail to model accountability, humility, and repentance, daughters grow up believing men are rarely held responsible. Resentment builds when authority exists without integrity.
When fathers disrespect their wives—through words, tone, or behavior—daughters absorb the message that marriage diminishes women. Even if no physical harm exists, emotional disrespect leaves a lasting imprint.
When fathers neglect their Islamic responsibilities as leaders of the household, daughters learn that Islam has little relevance in daily life. Faith becomes something theoretical, not lived. Ideology later fills that vacuum.
When fathers prioritize work, status, or social life over family presence, daughters may conclude that men are unreliable and emotionally unavailable. Feminism then reframes detachment as strength.
When fathers are absent physically, daughters often grow up longing for protection while simultaneously distrusting it. This contradiction creates inner tension that ideology later exploits.
This is not written to demonize fathers. Many men were never taught how to lead with mercy. Many are carrying their own wounds, pressures, and unresolved pain. But intention does not erase impact. Islam did not give fathers authority to dominate. It gave them authority to protect, provide, and shepherd.
A father who fears Allah, teaches his daughter that male leadership can be safe. A father who is just, teaches her that authority can be trusted. A father who is emotionally present, teaches her that vulnerability is not weakness.
When fathers fulfill their role with taqwa, daughters do not feel the need to armor themselves against men or ideology. They grow up with discernment instead of suspicion and confidence instead of defiance.
This is not about perfection; it is about presence, accountability, and trusting in Allah SWT.
When fathers show up, daughters feel safer. When fathers lead with mercy, daughters trust balance. And when fathers model Islam properly, feminism loses much of its appeal.
If you liked this post, you may enjoy reading: How Mothers Play a Part in Raising Daughters Who Become Feminists
Salam, I’m Zakeeya!
I believe being a wife, a mother, and making our homes a sanctuary for our families brings us tremendous blessings, fulfillment, and improves society. Since 2011, I've been committed to helping Muslimas find tranquility in their roles, take better care of themselves, and attain contentment within. Our journey is not an easy one, but I pray the resources and mentoring I offer, will assist in navigating you through your everyday challenges with mindfulness and gratitude, inshallah. Join me as I share wifehood, motherhood, homemaking, and lifestyle solutions that make life more fulfilling for you as a woman! READ MORE
