Every time gun violence rears its ugly head in Toronto, there are calls not only for justice, but for a deeper look into the root causes of crime, especially amongst young people from troubled communities.  Only then, activists say, can we begin to tackle the ever-increasing problem.

Many youths who become involved in gangs are from families where the father is predominantly absent, and that may be a contributing factor in their criminality.

According to a new study out of Penn State, one of the keys to success for young children lays directly in the role a father plays.

Penn State associate professor of sociology, demography and human development and family studies, Valerie King, found that a father's involvement with his child's upbringing significantly affects their achievements and behaviour.

She found that it wasn't just the amount of time spent with a child that mattered most, but the quality of time. 
 
Fathers, the study revealed, must establish a close relationship and stay actively involved in their children's lives.