Hegemonic masculinity versus a caring masculinity: Implications for understanding primary caregiving fathers

Abstract

Recently, there has been a growing interest in what is positioned as a new form of masculinity arising from the increase in fathers as primary caregivers. This new form is referred to as a “caring masculinity” and is theorised as a radical shift away from traditional or hegemonic forms of masculinity. This paper critically examines the fathering literature, focusing specifically on how primary caregiving fathers navigate social norms with regard to masculinity. The paper concludes that there is a complex interplay between expectations of a traditional, provider father and a new and involved father. It is argued that ideas surrounding a caring masculinity are better understood as a broadening of hegemonic masculinity, rather than an entirely new or distinct form.

New masculinities in universities? Discourses, ambivalence and potential change

“…We interpret this framing as one that connects with the maintenance of a more traditional if not hegemonic masculinity. While earlier research suggests that caring and hegemonic masculinities 'sit alongside one another' (Hunter et al, 2017) and that caring masculinity is somehow incorporated into hegemonic masculinity (Hearn et al, 2012), we have shown that this is neither uncomplicated nor clear in the lives of men. New masculinities offer young male academics not only opportunities to embrace care responsibilities, but their lives are rendered notably complex.…”

“…Caring masculinities offer an alternative model based on caregiving roles for men (Scambor et al, ). While care is traditionally associated with femininity (Scambor et al, , p. 560), men in many societies in the Global North are now expected to be more involved in caregiving (Hunter et al, ). In anglophone research, caring masculinities are presented as new forms of masculinity arising from, for example, increase in fathers as primary caregivers (Hunter et al, ).…”

“…While care is traditionally associated with femininity (Scambor et al, 2014, p. 560), men in many societies in the Global North are now expected to be more involved in caregiving (Hunter et al, 2017). In anglophone research, caring masculinities are presented as new forms of masculinity arising from, for example, increase in fathers as primary caregivers (Hunter et al, 2017). They are also seen as rejection of masculine domination in general (Elliott, 2016).…”

Sharenting: Pride, affect and the day‐to‐day politics of digital mothering

“…Hess Brown & DeRycke, ). This appears to remain the case, despite increased expectations around the adoption of caring masculinities for fathers and their involvement in family life and childcare (Hunter, Riggs, & Augoustinos, ).…”

Determinants of participation in childcare amongst fathers who work very long hours

“…Similarly, both the time availability and the relative resources perspectives (Aassve et al, 2014;Craig & Mullan, 2011;Hook & Wolfe, 2011a), as well as aspects of Sen's capabilities theory (Hobson, 2013), can be drawn upon to explain how fathers' family and household context impact participation in childcare. Finally, gender role theory and the concept of caring masculinities (Banchefsky & Park, 2016;Elliott, 2016;Hunter, Riggs, & Augoustinos, 2017;Kangas, Lämsä, & Heikkinen, 2017) provide useful mechanisms that help explain the ways values and belief systems underpin the decisions fathers make regarding caregiving within the work and family/household contexts. For each theory I first describe its original application, and then describe how it has been applied to explaining differences between fathers' patterns of participation.…”