Study Reveals Persistent Gender Inequalities in Parental Roles Two Years After Childbirth

Research shows fathers prioritize careers and engaging parenting activities, leaving less visible domestic tasks to mothers.

A study by the DREES, based on interviews with 49 fathers, highlights minimal changes in fathers' professional commitments after childbirth.
Fathers often prioritize career opportunities, with telework used discreetly to balance family demands without reducing work availability.
Parenting contributions by fathers tend to focus on rewarding activities like playtime and bedtime routines, while less gratifying tasks are frequently avoided.
Domestic responsibilities remain unevenly shared, with fathers taking on visible tasks like weekend cooking and shopping, while mothers handle more routine, invisible chores.
The findings underline how structural inequalities persist despite extended paternity leave introduced in 2021.