In Commemoration of 66 Years of HIMPSI and World Mental Health Day 2025

To mark the 66th anniversary of HIMPSI (the Indonesian Psychological Association) and celebrate World Mental Health Day 2025, HIMPSI in collaboration with Dex-Wellness presents a reflective and educational webinar on a crucial topic: fatherlessness — the absence of a father’s role in a child’s life.

The event features David Wongso, Psychologist, MM, MBA, M.Min, Founder of Dex-Wellness and author of the best-selling book “Tanpa Ayah Tanpa Arah” (Fatherless, Directionless), as the keynote speaker. It will also be attended by HIMPSI Central Board Chairs Prof. Henndy Ginting and Brig. Gen. (Ret.) Dr. Arief Budiarto.

Why Is a Father’s Presence Important?

Developmental psychology affirms that fathers have a unique and irreplaceable influence in shaping the foundation of a child’s personality:

• Cognitive: An involved father supports the development of language, logic, and problem-solving skills. Studies show that children with engaged fathers tend to achieve better academically.

• Emotional: A present father provides a sense of security, helps children regulate their emotions, and builds self-confidence.

• Social: Interaction with fathers trains social skills, empathy, and cooperation, while reducing the risk of aggression or delinquency.

• Spiritual: Fathers serve as models of values, morals, and meaning in life—helping children develop a strong spiritual foundation to face modern challenges.

Fatherlessness and Social Problems

The absence of a father has been linked to higher risks of juvenile delinquency, addiction, early pregnancy, school dropout, criminal behavior, and mental health disorders. By strengthening the family pillar—especially through active father involvement—many social issues can be prevented early on.

As Erik Erikson emphasized, children who receive full support during developmental stages form a strong identity instead of falling into confusion and crisis.

Learning from Other Countries

• Scandinavia: Offers long parental leave for both fathers and mothers, along with pro-family policies—resulting in healthier, more equal, and prosperous generations.

• Australia: Promotes work-life balance through parental leave and flexible work arrangements. This approach has proven to enhance employee wellbeing and consistently places Australia among the world’s top 10 countries for quality of life.

• Singapore: Places family at the core of its national development strategy, investing heavily in parenting programs, education subsidies, and family-strengthening campaigns.

A Four-Dimensional Solution

This session also presents a comprehensive framework for addressing the fatherlessness phenomenon:

• Individual: Encourage fathers to recognize their role, repent from neglect, and build emotional and spiritual bonds with their children.

• Community: Mobilize communities, social organizations, and faith-based groups to create supportive environments for families and fathers.

• Workplace: Advocate for family-friendly corporate policies such as paternity leave, flexible work schedules, and mental health programs.

• Nation: Develop public policies that position family strengthening as a core element of national development—drawing inspiration from best practices in developed countries.

Reflection for Indonesia

Indonesia faces challenges such as urbanization, digital addiction, technological disruption, and rising mental health issues. However, the most fundamental solution begins at home.

When fathers reclaim their role as family leaders—showing care, time, love, discipline, and integrity—Indonesia’s young generation will grow stronger, mentally healthier, and better prepared to become the nation’s high-quality human capital for sustainable development.

This webinar is not merely an academic discussion—it is a call to action for all leaders, professionals, and citizens to strengthen families, restore the role of fathers, and prevent social problems through healthy and united family pillars.