Association Between Gender Perceptions and Fathers' Perceptions of Their Role in Parenting Young Children

Abstract

Aim

The aim of this study is to examine the relationship between the perception of gender and the perception of fatherhood role among fathers having 0 to 6 year olds.

Methods

The study was conducted with descriptive, cross-sectional, and correlational design between December 2022 and March 2023. The sample of the study consisted of 1108 fathers with 0-6 year olds who were selected using the simple random sampling method and were living in different cities of Turkey. “Perception of Gender Scale” and “Perception Measurement for Father's Role” were used in the study.

Results

The fathers who had more egalitarian gender beliefs, knew the concept of gender equality, and believed that their family had gender equality were more likely to take an active role in family functions, fatherhood roles and family processes. Therefore, the perception of fatherhood role was significantly higher in terms of developing a healthy father-child relationship.

Conclusion

In light of results of this study, it is thought that there are important implications for policy makers, practitioners, healthcare professionals working with the family, and nurses who are in contact with the family at every stage, which will contribute to the healthy progress of family processes.