Adjustment of Life and Childcare by Fathers Actively Engaged in Parenting

Abstract

Objective: This study aims to explore how fathers actively engaged in childcare perceive, reconcile, and adjust their lives while managing childcare.

Methods: Fathers participating in privately organized childcare support classes in Prefecture A were considered actively involved in parenting. Among them, seven fathers from dual-income households with their youngest child under the age of three were selected as participants. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and analyzed using the Qualitative Synthesis Method (KJ Method).

Results: Fathers recognized the “essence of childcare: joy and gratitude for birth, a sense of growth, and enjoyment that surpasses challenges.” This perspective underpinned three mutually reinforcing approaches: (1) self-focused responses―transitioning from anxiety about household chores and childcare to prioritizing family life through cooperation with their wives; (2) Wife-focused responses―working toward cooperative parenting through mutual respect for feelings and values; and (3) child-focused responses―creating a home environment that fosters their child's happiness. Fathers also identified the need for (1) workplace reforms to strengthen systems supporting fathers in childcare and (2) community-based efforts to build environments that aid fathers in parenting.

Discussion: By recognizing the essence of childcare, fathers prioritized family over personal interests and envisioned a shared future together. This strengthened their sense of collaboration with their wives and heightened their awareness of creating a supportive home environment for their children’s future while advocating for improved childcare systems at work and in the community.