Reshaping Constructions of Men as Fathers: A Content Analysis of Formulations of Fatherhood in Parenting Magazines

• In Event: 379 - Student Forum Paper Session. Choice, Morality, and (Neo)Liberalism

Abstract

Contemporary ideologies of fatherhood continue to reflect the importance of instrumental support breadwinning men provide their children. However, there has also been an increased emphasis on the expressive and nurturing care of fathers as well. Despite this growing focus on men as fathers in media and popular opinion, there remains a paucity of scholarly research on analytical depictions of fatherhood. This content analysis fills a gap in the literature through an exploration of popular portrayals of fatherhood as conceptualized in articles (n = 50) from five well-circulated parenting magazines in the United States. Depictions of fathers predominantly fell into categories supportive of hegemonic masculinity that emphasized men’s masculine identities as overshadowing their roles as parents. Additionally, men were often cast in ambiguous parenting situations where they struggled to establish their legitimacy as parents. Finally, many articles revolved around men’s pathways to and struggles with fatherhood. Fathers who internalize these portrayals of fatherhood from popular media may be less likely to view themselves as legitimate parents if they do not see themselves positively represented in generalist parenting depictions.

Author

• Rachel Marie Schmitz, University of Nebraska-Lincoln