Mid Sweden University

The Finnish parental leave policy was renewed in 2022 giving both parents equal opportunities for parental leave use. Previous research on parental leave has focused largely on the mothers. The aim of this study was to shed light on fathers’ perspectives regarding the use of parental leave. Methods: Semistructured interviews were conducted with 7 fathers (age 25 – 42) from Helsinki in April 2024. Interviews were held on Microsoft Teams, recorded, transcribed and analyzed with the qualitative content analysis. Results: The analysis revealed five categories and one overall theme. The categories consisted of employment situation and career development, influence of partners, gender equality, child’s best interest and personal thoughts and wishes. Fathers identified both opportunities and challenges concerning employment and career development. Partner influence was significant, both encouraging and discouraging longer parental leave. Fathers recognized gender equality issues and desired a more balanced share of leave yet appeared to be flexible when it came to sharing parental leave. Practical considerations like delaying daycare start dates influenced decisions, emphasizing the child’s best interest. The division where the mother stays at home longer, was perceived natural and the underlying message being that gender roles came naturally. Conclusion: Parental leave is shared unequal, and it comes naturally and reflects inherent gender roles within the family.