In Born to Run, Springsteen tells of his father's rages and disapproval of his son. His behaviour left Springsteen feeling disengaged and emotionally constrained as he tried to protect himself from such monumental rejection. Similarly, in A Life in Questions, Paxman writes of his resentment – even hatred at times – for his estranged father, who appeared to show no interest in his life when, as an adult, the broadcaster tracked him down in Australia. "I was astonished by his lack of curiosity,” Paxman said.

Paternal rejection can deeply affect children. Ronald Rohner at the University of Connecticut claims that behavioural problems, delinquency, depression and maladjustment are more closely linked to fathers' rejection than to that of mothers.

Sometimes paternal rejection can seem to have its positive side. Boys who are rejected by their fathers may become high achievers. However, their achievements often feel hollow. When acknowledgement can't fill their childhood void, they anxiously push themselves harder and harder. Add a lack of self-confidence and a bleak picture emerges.

Certainly, positive paternal involvement has a significant effect on children's mental wellbeing. Charlie Lewis at Lancaster University and Michael Lamb at the National Institute of Child Health found paternal involvement during childhood was a better predictor of adult psychological adjustment than maternal involvement.

The lesson? Sharing parental responsibilities equally is best. It's not always easy, but for the sake of sons and daughters alike, it's well worth the effort.

Linda Blair, The Telegraph