The "New Dad": Boston College Study Reveals New Fathers' Views on Parenting & Careers

CHESTNUT HILL, Mass.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--As dads young and old look forward to celebrating Father’s Day, a new study by the Center for Work & Family at Boston College indicates that today’s new dads do not equate being a good father with the role of “breadwinner,” but with “being there, being present, spending time, and being accessible.”

“The New Dad: Exploring Fatherhood Within a Career Context”

"The New Dad: Exploring Fatherhood Within a Career Context" is a qualitative study of middle-income, first-time fathers that focuses on the under-researched area of men, careers, and fatherhood.

According to the study's authors, the rise of women in the workforce and downsizings triggered by the economy have shifted men’s attitudes about parenting and workplace commitment.

Significant findings from the study include:

• Most fathers in the study confirmed that their self-image at work increased in a positive way after having children, with many reporting that their new role as parents had enhanced their reputation, credibility, and even career options.
• The workplace does not expect fathers to reduce their workload or career aspirations to take into account their new responsibilities outside of work – though many fathers may want to do so.
• Although new fathers felt supported by their bosses regarding work-life flexibility, most did not arrange formal flexible work arrangements as new mothers often do. Instead, they used more informal, sometimes “stealth” approaches to balancing work-family issues.
• Workplaces should recognize that fathers, as well as mothers, are challenged by the need to balance work and home lives.

“Based on our research, organizations can support parents in their workforce by understanding that mothers and fathers desire, and can benefit from a supportive, family friendly workplace culture and policies,” said BC Center for Work and Family Executive Director Brad Harrington, author of the study with CWF senior research associate Fred Van Deusen and Jamie Ladge of Northeastern University.

The study can be accessed at www.bc.edu/cwf.

The Boston College Center for Work and Family is a global leader in helping organizations create effective workplaces that support and develop healthy and productive employees. With over 100 corporate partners worldwide, the Center links the academic community to leaders in employment settings who are committed to promoting workforce effectiveness.