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Moving Fathers: Workplace Interventions for Paternal Involvement in Childcare

Author

Listed:
  • Tanaka, Mari

    (University of Tokyo)

  • Okudaira, Hiroko

    (Doshisha University)

  • Sakka, Mariko

    (University of Tsukuba)

  • Yamaguchi, Shintaro

    (University of Tokyo)

Abstract

We test whether employers can shift household allocation by targeting men as fathers. Among 1,225 male employees in four Japanese organizations, we randomized a two-hour work-life balance training and an information treatment correcting misperceptions of colleagues' support. Training increased fathers' weekend childcare by about one hour per day in young-child households and raised spouses' reported paid work; spouses' housework also fell. Training strengthened beliefs that paternity leave benefits workplace functioning but not leave intentions. Information modestly shifted perceived support but affected neither intentions nor information-seeking. Employer training can affect household allocation without changing formal rights or work arrangements.

Suggested Citation

  • Tanaka, Mari & Okudaira, Hiroko & Sakka, Mariko & Yamaguchi, Shintaro, 2026. "Moving Fathers: Workplace Interventions for Paternal Involvement in Childcare," IZA Discussion Papers 18913, IZA Network @ LISER.
    • Handle: RePEc:iza:izadps:dp18913
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Keywords

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    JEL classification:

    • J13 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demographic Economics - - - Fertility; Family Planning; Child Care; Children; Youth
    • J16 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demographic Economics - - - Economics of Gender; Non-labor Discrimination
    • J22 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demand and Supply of Labor - - - Time Allocation and Labor Supply
    • M54 - Business Administration and Business Economics; Marketing; Accounting; Personnel Economics - - Personnel Economics - - - Labor Management

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