How do Parental and Paternity Leaves Challenge the Gender Structure?

• In Event: 054 - Section on the Sociology of the Family Roundtable Session (one-hour).
  In Refereed Roundtable: Table 04. Egalitarian Families and Family Practices

Abstract

This paper provides a review of the empirical literature on parental and paternity leaves and their impact on gender equality and for the constitution of parenthood. It is based on a theoretical framework which articulates gender and discourse theories in order to analyze the constitution of parenthood. Following Barbara Risman’s “gender structure” concept, fatherhood and motherhood are understood as being shaped, often in gendered ways, on the institutional level of society (through laws, rules and discourses), in situated social interactions, as well as through identity processes. Distinguishing between these different levels, the paper describes in an original and complex way the potential gender-equality effects of leave policies for the constitution of parenthood. It also identifies research gaps in the literature and highlights areas where more attention could be paid as regards leave policies’ implications for parenthood and gender equality.

Author

• Isabel Valarino, University of Lausanne