12 Things Every American Dad Did in the 1970s That Would Raise Eyebrows Today

The 1970s were a very different time, especially when it came to fatherhood in America. Many habits and traditions that were once considered normal would now seem strange, outdated, or even unacceptable. From questionable safety practices to cultural norms that have shifted drastically, here are 12 things every American dad did in the 1970s that would definitely raise eyebrows today.

1. Smoking in the Car with Kids

It was commonplace for dads to light up cigarettes while driving the family around, even with children in the backseat. Back then, the harmful effects of secondhand smoke were not widely recognized, and many fathers smoked without hesitation inside closed spaces. Today, smoking in a car with kids is banned in many states, including North Carolina, due to the health risks involved.

2. Letting Kids Play Outside Unsupervised

American dads in the ’70s often encouraged their kids to roam the neighborhood freely without constant supervision. Kids were sent outside for hours to play street games, ride bikes, or explore woods nearby, reflecting a level of trust and freedom that’s much less common now due to safety concerns and increased parental watchfulness.

3. Using Corporal Punishment

Spanking and other forms of corporal punishment were widely accepted parenting tools for discipline in the ’70s. Many fathers believed physical discipline was necessary to teach respect and obedience. Today, this approach is highly discouraged and even legally restricted in many places as research highlights its psychological harm.

4. Wearing Loud Polyester Leisure Suits

Fashion was an unmistakable part of the ’70s dad image, often featuring polyester leisure suits in bright colors and bold patterns. These suits were a staple for casual outings or even some workplaces in North Carolina, reflecting the era’s unique style sense that would seem outlandish today.

5. Using DDT and Other Banned Chemicals in the Yard

Many dads were avid gardeners or lawn caretakers who used pesticides like DDT, which was later banned for its environmental and health hazards. Spraying such chemicals in home gardens or yards was standard practice before the long-term dangers were understood.

6. Taking Family Road Trips Without Seatbelts

Before seatbelt laws became widespread, dads often drove families on long road trips without insisting on seatbelt use. North Carolina was one of the later states to enforce seatbelt requirements, and during the ’70s, many families rode without restraints, a practice that would be unthinkable today.

7. Drinking Beer While Grilling in the Backyard

Backyard barbecues were a dad’s domain, and it was common to see fathers cracking open beers while manning the grill. Though still popular, the casual open consumption of alcohol with kids around has become more scrutinized and less socially accepted in some circles today.

8. Repairing Things with Duct Tape and Bailing Wire

Resourcefulness was a point of pride for many dads who fixed everything from cars to household items using duct tape, bailing wire, and other makeshift solutions. This hands-on, do-it-yourself attitude was part of the American dad mythos, especially in more rural or suburban areas of North Carolina.

9. Watching Monday Night Football as a Family Ritual

Monday Night Football wasn’t just for sports fans; it was a weekly bonding event where dads gathered the family around the TV. This tradition was a cultural cornerstone for many households, marking the start of the workweek with camaraderie and shared excitement.

10. Driving Big, Gas-Guzzling Station Wagons

Before minivans and SUVs, dads often drove large station wagons with wood paneling, perfect for hauling kids and gear. These gas-guzzling vehicles symbolized family utility but would be criticized today for their environmental impact and inefficiency.

11. Using Typewriters to Write Letters and Bills

Long before laptops and smartphones, dads relied on typewriters to write letters, pay bills, or draft work documents at home. This analog tool required skill and patience, highlighting how much technology has transformed daily life and communication since the ’70s.

12. Wearing Aviator Sunglasses Everywhere

Iconic aviator sunglasses were the go-to accessory for American dads in the ’70s, projecting a cool, authoritative vibe. Popularized by figures like Steve McQueen and pilots, these shades remain fashionable but are often associated with a nostalgic era of masculinity and style.

Looking back at these 12 habits offers a fascinating glimpse into the cultural shifts that have reshaped fatherhood and family life. While some traditions have faded or evolved, each reflects the unique spirit of American dads in the 1970s and how far society has come since then.