We’ve all come across those infamous “rules for dating my daughter” posts circulating online. You know the ones—the intimidating and often bizarre lists that threaten teenage boys with everything from physical harm to the wrath of a father who sees his daughters as possessions. They can range from mildly uncomfortable to outright disturbing.
- Get a job.
- Know that I don’t like you.
- I’m always watching.
- Hire a lawyer…
Yes, these slogans are actually emblazoned on shirts that some fathers wear with pride. However, one dad had enough of this outdated stereotype of the overprotective father. He decided to reshape the narrative, and his version has quickly gained popularity.
As noted by Caleb Johnson, “I’m not raising princesses.” He emphasizes that it’s essential to ask his daughters what their own boundaries are. “I’m not grooming my girls to rely on me to intimidate their dates; they deserve to be treated with respect on their own terms,” he states. “If you don’t respect them, they’ll handle it just fine without my intervention.”
As a father of six daughters, he’s learned that they are strong and capable individuals who can navigate relationships independently. “I was brought up in a very conservative household,” Johnson shared in an interview with Home Insemination Kit. “My upbringing was so strict that I was homeschooled to avoid learning things I now freely embrace. Watching my mother conform to a submissive role never sat well with me, even as a child. When I became a father to multiple daughters, I became acutely aware of anything resembling misogyny.”
He elaborated, “I’ve been a feminist long before my daughters came along, but raising them has made me realize their strength and autonomy are remarkable. I can’t take credit for that, only for understanding that I shouldn’t try to shape them.”
How refreshing is that perspective? How often do we hear fathers claim that having a daughter changed their outlook on women? Johnson flips that narrative on its head, and it’s truly inspiring.
“I had been contemplating sharing this thought after overhearing a man brag about intimidating a boy who came to pick up his daughter. It made me sick. Then, I saw all those ‘10 rules for dating my daughter’ posts and felt compelled to respond,” Johnson explained.
We’re grateful he did. Now, if only we could get this message printed on a shirt!
In summary, Caleb Johnson’s approach to parenting his six daughters stands in stark contrast to the traditional, fear-based methods of some fathers. By empowering his daughters to establish their own boundaries and advocating for their autonomy, he sets a positive example of respect and equality in relationships.
For more insights on parenting and related topics, check out this excellent resource on IVF and fertility preservation from Cleveland Clinic.