An exploration of fatherhood penalties in the Irish labour market

Moran, William (2024) An exploration of fatherhood penalties in the Irish labour market. Masters thesis, Dublin, National College of Ireland.

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Abstract

This research explores the under researched topic of the fatherhood penalty within the Irish labour market, focusing on C-Suite executives with four or more children. Previous research has primarily concentrated on motherhood penalties and fatherhood premiums, with limited qualitative insights into fathers’ professional experiences. Quantitative studies have associated some advantages associated with fatherhood, but these findings lacked depth and failed to capture the nuanced realities of high-ranking professionals. This research aims to fill the gap by using a qualitative approach to examine how these individuals perceive the impact of fatherhood on career.

Utilising a qualitative, inductive approach, in depth interviews were conducted for this research to undercover the lived experiences and self-perceptions of these individuals. A thematic analysis focused on identifying common themes related to fatherhood and work culture as perceived by participants. These findings reveal that traditional gender norms and workplace expectations significantly influence the professional experiences of these fathers.

The major findings of the research suggest that while some fathers may benefit from a perceived stability and commitment associated with fatherhood, others face significant challenges balancing professional and family responsibilities, which can be interpreted as penalties.

The implications of this study are significant, suggesting that much work is needed in Ireland in this area so that both mothers and fathers feel supported as professionals and parents. By providing a deeper understanding of the fatherhood penalty, this research contributes to the broader discourse on gender equality in the workplace.

Item Type:	Thesis (Masters)
Supervisors:	Name Email Sheerin, Corina UNSPECIFIED
Subjects:	H Social Sciences > HQ The family. Marriage. Woman D History General and Old World > DA Great Britain > Ireland H Social Sciences > HD Industries. Land use. Labor > Issues of Labour and Work > Labour Market H Social Sciences > HD Industries. Land use. Labor > Issues of Labour and Work > Parental Leave
Divisions:	School of Business > Master of Business Administration
Depositing User:	Ciara O'Brien
Date Deposited:	17 Jun 2025 17:29
Last Modified:	17 Jun 2025 17:29
URI:	https://norma.ncirl.ie/id/eprint/7888

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