How is a Man Supposed to be a Man?: Male Childlessness - a Life Course Disrupted

The global trend of declining fertility rates and an increasingly ageing population has serious implications for individuals and institutions alike. This unique book examines the lived experiences of a hidden and disenfranchised population: men who wanted to be fathers. It explores the complex intersections that influence childlessness over the life course.

Format: Hardback
Length: 394 pages
Publication date: 17 September 2021
Publisher: Berghahn Books

The global trend of declining fertility rates and an increasingly ageing population has far-reaching implications for individuals and institutions alike. Childless men, often excluded from ageing, social science, and reproduction scholarship, are virtually absent from most national statistics. This groundbreaking book delves into the lived experiences of a marginalized and disenfranchised population: men who yearn to be fathers. It explores the intricate interplay of factors that shape childlessness throughout an individual's life course, shedding light on the complexities and challenges faced by these men.

Childlessness among men is a complex and multifaceted issue that warrants attention and understanding. While societal norms and expectations often revolve around parenthood, there are men who deeply desire to be fathers but face various barriers and challenges in achieving this goal. This book aims to shed light on their experiences, challenges, and hopes, providing a comprehensive exploration of the factors that contribute to childlessness among men.

One of the primary factors contributing to childlessness among men is the changing societal landscape. In many cultures and societies, traditional gender roles and expectations have persisted, with men being expected to be the primary breadwinners and providers. However, as women have gained greater economic independence and opportunities, they have become more assertive in their desire for parenthood. This has led to a shift in the gender dynamics of reproduction, with more couples choosing to have children later in life or choosing not to have children at all.

Furthermore, technological advancements and changing lifestyles have also played a significant role in childlessness among men. The rise of single-parent families, divorce rates, and the increasing prevalence of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) have made it more challenging for men to establish and maintain stable relationships. Additionally, the increasing cost of raising children and the lack of affordable housing and healthcare have made it difficult for some men to provide for their families.

Despite these challenges, there are also men who have successfully overcome these barriers and become fathers. These men may have faced personal obstacles, such as infertility or past relationship issues, but they have found ways to overcome them and build fulfilling families. They may have sought support from family, friends, or counseling services, or they may have adopted or fostered children.

Childlessness among men is not a monolithic issue, and there are various perspectives and experiences to consider. This book seeks to provide a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the factors that contribute to childlessness among men, and it aims to challenge societal norms and expectations that perpetuate gender inequality. By exploring the lived experiences of these men, we can gain a deeper appreciation of the complexities and challenges they face, and we can work towards creating a more inclusive and supportive society for all individuals, regardless of their gender or reproductive choices.

In conclusion, the global trend of declining fertility rates and an increasingly ageing population has profound implications for individuals and institutions alike. Childless men, often excluded from mainstream discourse, face unique challenges and barriers in achieving their desire to be fathers. This book provides a valuable insight into their lived experiences, challenges, and hopes, shedding light on the complex interplay of factors that contribute to childlessness among men. By challenging societal norms and expectations, we can work towards creating a more inclusive and supportive society for all individuals, regardless of their gender or reproductive choices.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781800731875