Most Americans Say Their Dad Is A Top Life Mentor, New Survey Finds

As Fathers Day approaches, a new survey highlights just how profound a role dads play in shaping their childrens lives — from life-saving heroics to everyday guidance.

In a poll of 2,000 Americans commissioned by SweatBlock and conducted by Talker Research, 70% of respondents who grew up with a father said hes one of their greatest life mentors. One in four (25%) said their dad is the first person they call in a stressful moment, and 17% named their father as their go-to for advice.

Many described their fathers stepping up in pivotal moments, like caring for them after a car accident or working multiple jobs to put them through college. Some even recounted truly extraordinary acts, like donating a kidney, and co-signing a business loan by putting his house up as collateral.

Respondents also shared personal stories about the heroic acts their dads have done for them.

“The most heroic thing my father has ever done for me was during Hurricane Harvey — he trudged through the waters to come get me,” one respondent said.

“When my first husband died and left me a widow when I was 32. My dad was there to do whatever I needed,” another said.

The support isnt just emotional. Dads have helped their kids recover from breakups (19%), make rent payments (22%), and figure out life goals (30%). Theyve taught everything from how to drive (49%) and fix household items (43%) to how to tie a tie (32%) and change a tire (31%).

Theyve also modeled self-care and confidence. Forty percent of respondents said their fathers emphasized physical health, 30% learned the importance of mental health, and more than a quarter (26%) said their dad bought them their first deodorant. A solid number also admitted to borrowing their dads grooming products growing up — including shaving cream (29%) and deodorant (26%).

“We commissioned this study in honor of Fathers Day to showcase just how much we owe our dads — from teaching us all things practical, like how to drive, to essentials like how to make a good first impression and the importance of a polished, confident look,” said Chase Purles, chief executive officer at SweatBlock. “Grooming is especially important for making a good first impression on someone and feeling confident in everything you do.”

The survey also delved into what contributes to confidence today. While 59% said they feel “very” or “extremely” confident overall, more than half (58%) said they start sweating in stressful situations. A good hair day (47%), a strong deodorant (40%), and a stylish outfit (36%) were listed as top essentials to feeling self-assured.

And while most respondents say they handle pressure well, they shared real stories of facing it head-on — like nervously sweating through work presentations or awkward family introductions — underscoring that confidence is often about persistence, not perfection.

“Being confident in yourself and your appearance will allow you to direct your focus to the most important things in your life,” said Purles. “A strong, effective deodorant is key here. No one likes to be damp sweaty, especially when stressed and problem solving. As respondents said, its one of the most crucial things for feeling poised all day long.”

Whether navigating lifes big decisions or simply modeling resilience day by day, the survey shows dads are far more than father figures — theyre trusted mentors, problem-solvers, and sources of strength long into adulthood.