Gendered division of domestic labour: Indonesian Muslim Men’s perceptions, participation and experiences in housework and childcare

Abstract

Research on gender inequality in Indonesian Muslim contexts has primarily focused on women, with limited exploration of men’s roles in domestic labour. This article addresses this gap by examining how Islam and culture shape men’s perceptions, participation and experiences in domestic labour. Using a mixed-methods approach, the study combines a time-use survey of 250 couples (500 individuals), and semi-structured interviews with 10 couples (20 individuals), and with two Islamic scholars (imams). The findings show that while men view their primary role in Islam as being the family’s provider, they are also encouraged to participate in domestic labour. However, cultural norms often reinforce their breadwinner role, leading to a highly gendered division of domestic labour, with women handling most household chores and childcare. Men’s involvement is often framed as ‘helping’ rather than fully sharing responsibilities, with some receiving appreciation for their contributions while others face criticism. Nevertheless, evolving interpretations of the Quran are advancing a more egalitarian understanding of gender roles, leading some men to increase their participation in domestic labour. This study provides new insights into domestic labour dynamics in Indonesian Muslim families, contributing to the broader discourse on gender roles, religion and cultural norms.