Gender Patterns in Provider Role Attitudes and Behavior

Abstract

Although much has been written on rapidly changing work and family roles, relatively little is known about the provider side of the work—family nexus. Using data from a study of gender, work, and family among the self-employed, we examine abstract and specific attitudes as well as behavior relating to the provider role. Results show gender differences and similarities in the meaning and influence of the provider role. Women exhibit more egalitarian attitudes even in this realm associated with men, yet similar proportions of women and men are unable to realize their preferences for how much providing to do. Incongruence in providing attitudes and behavior has more consequence for men's than for women's psychological well-being. Although there appears to be less of a stall in the provider side of the work—family system than in unpaid family work, the results suggest the continued importance of the man as good provider.