Egalitarian Fatherhood – a Present and Engaged Father

RESEARCH OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this article is to provide a scholarly reflection on egalitarian (partnership-based) fatherhood and the factors that condition and constitute it. THE RESEARCH PROBLEM AND METHODS: The study aims to answer two key questions: What defines egalitarian fatherhood? What experiences prepare boys and men to embrace this model of fatherhood? The research is based on a review of existing studies and an analysis and synthesis of relevant literature. THE PROCESS OF ARGUMENTATION: The paper examines shifting paradigms of masculinity and concepts of fatherhood. It discusses the notion of egalitarian parenthood, which is rooted in the principles of equality and shared parental responsibility between mothers and fathers. The argument then turns to the role of upbringing and socialization in developing caring masculinities that support the development of egalitarian fatherhood. RESEARCH RESULTS: Contemporary society embraces multiple concepts of masculinity and fatherhood. As fatherhood eludes unambiguous definitions, expectations surrounding it remain inconsistent, shaped by the interplay between ingrained stereotypes and evolving socio-cultural realities. Increasingly, academic discourse points to the concept of egalitarian fatherhood as a response to these changes and emphasizes the importance of the father’s active presence and engagement in family life. CONCLUSIONS, RECOMMENDATIONS AND APPLICABLE VALUE OF RESEARCH: Advancing a model of partnership-based fatherhood requires countering traditional stereotypes, including gendered patterns of socialization and social pressures that reinforce culturally ingrained conceptions of masculinity. Education plays a crucial role in this transformation by equipping men with the knowledge and skills necessary to confidently step into social roles and address emerging dilemmas. Additionally, continued scientific research is essential to understanding the conditions and factors that shape fatherhood in an era of rapidly evolving social change.