New America Report Finds Men Cutting Work Hours for Caregiving but Facing Workplace Barriers

A New America Better Life Lab report finds that men are taking more time off or reducing work hours for caregiving than they did in 2019, especially lower earners and those caring for children with special needs. Six in 10 fathers say they would like to stay home full time, yet cultural stigma and limited workplace flexibility keep many from using paid leave they are entitled to. Only about 40% of caregiving parents report splitting responsibilities equally, despite most men saying they should.

Why it matters: Leaders setting leave, flexibility, and retention policies should know that caregiving barriers now affect male employees as well as women.