Reconciling the ideal worker norm and involved fatherhood: new fathers’ experiences of requesting Shared Parental Leave in UK organizations

Abstract

The introduction of Shared Parental Leave (SPL) in the UK provided an opportunity for more fathers to take time out of work to be primary carers. The article presents the findings from qualitative interviews carried out with ten British fathers, which analyses their experiences of requesting SPL and the level of organizational support available to them on taking leave. In terms of requesting SPL and on their return to work, two approaches are discernible: these are described as ‘cautious’ and ‘bold’. Although maintaining their commitment to being involved parents, cautious fathers tended to conform to the ideal worker norm. They did so by adopting strategies to mitigate any anticipated career penalty, which included adjusting the timing and length of their leave. Thus the values associated with the ideal worker norm represent a psychological barrier to fathers who might otherwise want to take a longer period of leave or adjust their working hours post-leave. By contrast, bold fathers are less concerned about accommodating their employer's needs in requesting SPL and are prepared to adjust their working hours to facilitate involved fatherhood. The article concludes by considering appropriate responses for policymakers, fathers and organizations.