THE PICK AND MIX OF FATHERING IDENTITIES

Abstract

In this paper I ask, how can discursive research illustrate the flexible and negotiated identities of fatherhood? Using accounts from qualitative interviews with nine employed, first time fathers in the United Kingdom, this paper illuminates the complexities of their everyday lives as they try to make sense of dominant discourses of masculinity and fathering. I argue, fatherhood is dynamic rather than static by presenting discursive analysis of fathering talk. In particular, I critically analyse the hegemonic frames of fathering and masculinity in the UK and the everyday challenges these pose to fathers. I conclude by suggesting that fathers are not cultural dopes but discursive agents, struggling with the institutional norms of fatherhood. Finally I make recommendations for further scholarly research on the fluidity of fathering identities so that it may be embraced rather than side-lined in favour of static normative constructs.