What is it about?

This book describes the impact of wanting to be a dad but not becoming one. Based on interviews with childless men it details the many different circumstances that resulted in their not becoming dads. Although there are more childless men than childless women their stories are not often heard.

Featured Image

Why is it important?

The demographic change of increased childlessness, smaller families and longer life has significant implications for individuals and institutions. Men have been excluded from much of the debates and this book reveals the personal and political aspects from this ignored population.

Perspectives

I hope this book engages people to think about men as people and not just bodies that just work or are toxic. The myths around men and reproduction are exposed - they do care about becoming a father, relationships and caring across their lives. Yet this aspect of being human is not recorded and even worse denied to a lot of men. Acknowledging their vulnerabilities and how society reinforces behaviour is beneficial for all. I hope you find the book thought-provoking and useful.

Dr Robin A Hadley
Manchester Metropolitan University

Read the Original

This page is a summary of: How is a Man Supposed to be a Man?, September 2022, De Gruyter,
DOI: 10.1515/9781800731882.
You can read the full text:

Read

Resources

Contributors

The following have contributed to this page