‘A Total Gamechanger’: An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis of Swedish Fathers’ Work-Family Experiences Since the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

Although Sweden is a top country for gender equality, there are disparities in domestic labor and parental leave use between men and women. The COVID-19 pandemic changed work-home life by increasing remote work. This study explored eight fathers’ work-family experiences in Sweden before, during and since the COVID-19 pandemic using interviews. Three group themes were developed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis: “Fatherhood as protected and restrained before and during COVID-19”, “COVID-19 as an opportunity for introspection” and “COVID-19 as an opportunity for better balance”. Fathers made meaning of the pandemic in terms of new freedom and flexibility, whilst also expressing the importance of social connection at work. The study contributes insights on fathers’ needs and the debate on post-pandemic work organization.