Paternity leave has the potential to revolutionize family life, benefiting not only relationships between fathers and their children but also between spouses. Despite supporting evidence, many men do not take full advantage of available leave due to societal norms and perceived stigma. Richard Petts, a sociologist with firsthand experience as a father, highlights that most men who use paternity leave are typically well-off, underlining a disparity in access. Advocating for improved workplace policies can help shift these narratives, encouraging a healthier work-life balance for all parents.
"Taking leave is not normative," says Richard Petts, a sociologist who specializes in research on parental leave, when explaining the paternity leave statistics that show how few men actually take more than a week of paid leave.
Men who take leave have stronger relationships with their wives, a better bond with their children, and more appreciation for the running of their household.
The small proportion of men who do take full advantage of leave are disproportionately wealthy, white, salaried workers.
Petts, who has dedicated his career to answering the question, has some ideas. It all starts with access.
Collection
[
|
...
]