True or false? February 11, 2014Expert Blogs, My Life, PINK NotesOff

Recently, in a Facebook post from a Brazilian parenting magazine, a very enthusiastic and polemic discussion took place in the virtual sphere. The post raised the question: “Men in Germany are claiming a more flexible work condition in order to balance work and family time. Do you think Brazilian men would also like to work less and stay longer with their children?”

In just a few hours, this simple question garnered more than 4,000 Likes and nearly 2,000 Shares.

I read 128 comments, 107 posted by women and 21 by men.

My first conclusion is that women, especially mothers, are much more involved and willing to share their voices. Although the post referred directly to men, it was very hard for me to find 21 comments signed by men! Even if the topic involves men, when the subject discusses children, unfortunately, people assume it’s maternal territory.

Perhaps, this is a result of the Brazilian machismo and of our family culture that still sees kids as a proprietary of mothers only.

Analyzing the posts, women’s point of view is very strong and shows a clear opinion: 82 percent declared that this model would not work in Brazil! And most of them defended their position by arguing that fathers would not use their free time to take care of children. They believe that the extra hours would be used for other recreational activities.

With almost 50 percent of the Brazilian workforce in women’s hands, they are still the main (and sometimes only) responsible for children’s needs. In addition to that, some posts brought the idea that to work extra hours, to be a workaholic employee, is seen as a demonstration of success in Brazil. If you work less hours, Brazilian society tends to see a man as a failed person.

But there is 18 percent that, yes, argue Brazilian men would like to have more flexible schedules to spend more time with their children, too. Often referred to as a “very special man”, most women consider their husbands who support this idea exceptions to the rule. One of them said: “For 99 percent of the Brazilian men, I would say ‘no’. But my husband, yes!”.

Sixty percent responded affirmatively, noting they would like to have more flexible work schedules. Many shared that they already have this opportunity and that is a blessing to spend time with their children. Forty percent blamed Brazilian culture for their disagreeing views.

In Brazil we still have a long way ahead to be close to the German proposal. And in United States? If this question comes up, how would Americans respond? Would American men like to work less and stay longer with kids? True or false?

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