Fatherhood & Family

Family life is changing, but dads matter as much as ever

Educational and labor market trends have transformed the economics of the family. In 41% of U.S. households today, women are the main breadwinner. But while educational and labor market trends have transformed the economics of the family, cultural changes around fatherhood have lagged far behind. The result is a national “dad deficit” that not only affects women and children, but also hurts millions of American men who are disconnected from their families.

63%
Share of fathers who say they spend too little time with their children.
21%
The share of children being raised by a single mom, up from 11% in 1968.
1 in 3
The share of children who, six years after their parents separate, don't see their father at all.
40%
Share of fathers who did not complete high school that live apart from their children.
41%
Share of U.S. households where women are the main breadwinner.
2x
Divorce is twice as likely to be initiated by women than men.

commentary Fatherhood & Family

5 Things I changed my mind about as a feminist “Boymom”

Ruth Whippman challenges assumptions about boys, arguing that understanding their unique needs is crucial to both feminism and healthier masculinity.

Sep 11, 2024
Ruth Whippman
a boy holding his mother's hand in a forest

No, young men are not turning away from gender equality

But like many women, they have mixed feelings about feminism.

Jul 24, 2024
Richard Reeves, Allen Downey
men and women chatting around a table

The dangerous myth of male incompetence

The myth of male incompetence is reinforced by low expectations. Emily Oster argues competence is learned, not tied to gender.

Jun 17, 2024
Emily Oster
A man carrying a crying child.

Melinda French Gates invests in boys and men: a new era for gender equality

Melinda French Gates is investing in boys and men, showing that the gender equality movement has space for men and boys without sacrificing its focus on women and girls. AIBM President Richard Reeves has been selected to direct a portion of these investments.

May 28, 2024
Richard Reeves
a black and white portrait picture of melinda french gates

For a model of Muslim masculinity, maybe don’t look to the manosphere

Haroon Moghul  explores using Islamic teachings to address the masculinity challenges among Muslim men in America, advocating for modern perspectives and using 'Umar ibn al-Khattab as a positive role model.

May 13, 2024
Haroon Moghul
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Why Washington State should create a Commission on Boys and Men

Lawmakers in Washington State may be about to lead the nation by establishing a bipartisan Commission on Boys and Men.

Nov 13, 2023
Richard Reeves
image of washington state containing educational themes

Some news I can’t wait to share: AIBM

Why I'm founding the American Institute for Boys and Men

Jun 30, 2023
Richard Reeves
young boy running

Into the vacuum demons pour

Why neglecting male issues is bad for our culture and politics

Mar 29, 2023
Richard Reeves
six male demons congregating and looking into the distance