Reconstruction of Masculine Identities Through Caring Practices: The Experiences of Male Caregivers in Hong Kong

Lai Ching Leung, Kam Wah Chan, Kin Yuen Tam

Research output: Journal article publicationJournal articleAcademic researchpeer-review

7 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to explore from a gender perspective how masculinities might be reworked into identities of care through men taking on the role of family caregiver. A qualitative method was adopted for this research. Twenty Chinese men in Hong Kong who were the main caregivers in their families were invited for in-depth interviews to understand their views on caring and their experiences as caregivers. We identified four types of male caregiver: (a) conforming caregivers, (b) traditional caregivers, (c) transitional caregivers, and (d) transforming caregivers. Based on our findings, we argue that when men engage in caring, changes can occur in their perceptions of the value of care, their relationships with family members, and their male identities. The involvement of men in caring may lead to social change for men and transform gender relations.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)764-784
Number of pages21
JournalJournal of Family Issues
Volume40
Issue number6
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Apr 2019

Keywords

  • doing gender
  • gender equality
  • hegemonic masculinity
  • male carers
  • undoing gender

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Social Sciences (miscellaneous)

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