This paper focuses primarily on the fathering role as played by the widower. Traditionally, the father plays the role of disciplinarian. The therapeutic role which involves expressing affection and giving tender care to children is assumed primarily by the mother. Men appear to be sheltered by their wives from any degree of involvement with their children. Ideally, men ought to be free, if they choose, to go beyond the limits of the traditional masculine role and become more fully involved in child rearing roles. Recent literature is suggesting that men are assuming a more expressive posture with their children. This is, in part, due to the increasing number of working mothers who are asking their husbands to become more involved with the children and, in part, due to the women's liberation movement. Recent research on widowers indicates that the existing notions about men not being capable or desirous of parenting at the expressive level is highly questionable. (Author)