Fathers in Denmark

The issue of fathers in terms of work and family is a complex one in Denmark.  Gender equality  is a major part of life in Denmark.  First women were made equal to men in the work place due to tax reforms, labor market policies, removal of family related obstacles, 
paid maternity leave and government paid child care.  This is seen with the high female employment rates.

The next step is to equalize men at home, such as paternal leave.

There is still however problems men face in this equalization…

The Masculinity Debate

• It is said that motherhood is seen as a major component of the female identity female sexuality and femininity
• Fatherhood is considered one component of a man’s social identity
• Fatherhood is not considered a central component
• Masculinity has more of a basis on sexuality and work

Experience

• A common belief held in Denmark is that if a man can take off time for work then the company does not need him
• Loss of human capital gain and experience during leave time

Levels of Cultural Practice to Bring About Reconciliation

• Institutional Level
• Formal legal framework
• Interactional Level
• How employers and employees handle fatherhood in the context of their particular work place
• Individual Level
• How man chooses to handle his options

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Reference:

Hojgaard, Lis. 1997. "Working fathers--caught in the web of the symbolic order of gender." Acta Sociologica 40(3):245-261.