Culture and conduct of fatherhood in India

Abstract

The paper aims to add to the scant fatherhood literature in Asia and focuses on the link between culture and conduct of fatherhood in India. The specific objectives of the research are to: (1) explore men’s perception of an ideal father (culture), (2) study men’s participation in parenting (conduct), and (3) examine whether men’s behaviour is in accordance with the beliefs. Using data gathered through semi-structured interviews with 350 fathers of children aged zero to 10 years in Mumbai, India, the results indicate that although the notion of fatherhood is changing, a sizeable proportion of men still see ‘ideal’ fathers in the traditional role of surety, economic provider and/or role model. The actual role performance of fathers is not always consistent with their perception of ideal fatherhood. Identifying the gap between fatherhood ideology and practice and, its correlates may help motivate fathers for increased involvement in day-to-day family work.