Story perspectives

75% of Dads Seek Equal Parenting Amid Stigma

10/15/2025

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Summary

Story summary

A UK study of 5,000 working dads finds 75% want equal parenting but face stigma when requesting paternity leave.
One in five dads report being asked, "Where's your wife?"
Dads feel nervous about time-off requests and face guilt over covering colleagues' work amid breadwinner expectations.
Experts say flexible leave policies and discussions about fatherhood are needed, a view echoed by campaigners who argue these changes improve family dynamics and workplace culture.

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Story summary

A UK study of 5,000 working dads finds 75% want equal parenting but face stigma when requesting paternity leave.
One in five dads report being asked, "Where's your wife?"
Dads feel nervous about time-off requests and face guilt over covering colleagues' work amid breadwinner expectations.
Experts say flexible leave policies and discussions about fatherhood are needed, a view echoed by campaigners who argue these changes improve family dynamics and workplace culture.