How can men take on more domestic tasks?
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We can all do something to contribute to men working less and doing more at home, argues university lecturer Max van Lent in a podcast of Dutch ‘De Telegraaf' newspaper.
Figures from Statistics Netherlands’ Emancipation Monitor show that parents would like to divide their work in employment and their household tasks more equally. In reality, according to Van Lent, the division of tasks is still not very equal: ‘Women still do more at home than men and therefore work fewer hours in paid employment.’ Part of the reason for this lies in social norms. ‘Research shows that when mothers see other mothers working a lot, they tend to do so too.’ A similar pattern is visible with fathers, the university lecturer argues. ‘Dads could therefore actively speak out themselves and show others that they take on a greater share of household tasks.’
Besides people themselves, the government and employers can also encourage men to work less and contribute more actively at home. ‘The government could implement policies that encourage gender equality and equal opportunities,’ Van Lent says. ‘Extended leave around the time of having children is important here.’ Employers could also do their bit by being more flexible and giving their employees more autonomy. 'For example, by making starting at 9.30 a.m. possible so that dads can also take their children to school. Working from home could also allow men to take on more household duties, like vacuuming or putting on a load of washing.'
More information?
Listen to the entire podcast episode of Zo Doet Zij Dat from De Telegraaf (in Dutch)