Mr. Frank is a gentle man who avoids conflict. He is never one to start an argument and he maintains his temper at all times. Anne loves her father because of his patient and loving nature. The way Mr. Frank lovingly and respectfully speaks with Margot and Anne shows that he believes that this is the best way to bring up children. However, when Anne discusses with him how she doesn't love her mother, this greatly concerns him. He does not take sides with Anne even though she says that she loves him the most in the whole world. Mr. Frank supports his wife by telling his daughter that it isn't right for her to make her mother cry. In fact, Mr. Frank's advice as she matures and grows is as follows:

"There is so little that we parents can do to help our children. We can only try to set a good example . . . point the way. The rest you must do yourself. You must build your own character."

As shown in the above passage, Mr. Frank believes that parents must set a good example and children must learn by watching and following as they see fit. This relieves him of some responsibility and places it upon Anne's shoulders. If Anne wants to be a good person, then she can watch her parents and decide what that means for herself. Only she can make the changes in her behavior if she so chooses.