Family court is behind the times

I would like to commend former Rep. George Radanovich for his column addressing fatherlessness (Dec. 26). There is no dispute to claims that children coming from homes with disengaged parents are more likely to suffer from physical and substance abuse problems or to engage in behaviors that are reckless or damaging.

I raise objection, however, to The Bee's editorial of Radanovich's endeavors to address this problem by stating no less than six times that absent fathers are to blame for this trend in parental apathy (Jan. 2).

Since the mid-'80s, there has been significant shift toward the importance of the father's role in child rearing, especially in post-divorce families. A steadily growing number of fathers are stepping up to heed the call to raise their children. Unfortunately, the antiquated family court system has yet to catch up to this current trend. This leads to making it difficult for some fathers to accept their increased roles in the absence of a noncustodial parent.

I encourage stronger dialogue and efforts in updating our family courts for the 21st century. Fathers are stepping up and deserve a fair and level system that protects what's in the best interests of their children.

LETA LARKIN

Modesto