The Pick and Mix of Fathering Identities

• DOI: 10.3149/fth.0902.150
• Publication Date: 2011-06-15T07:06:44Z
• Authors: Gemma Anne Yarwood
• Keywords: 05 social sciences; 0509 other social sciences

In this paper I ask, how can discursive research illustrate the flexible and negotiated identities of fatherhood? Using accounts from qualitative interviews with nine employed, first time fathers in United Kingdom, illuminates complexities their everyday lives as they try to make sense dominant discourses masculinity fathering. argue, fatherhood is dynamic rather than static by presenting analysis fathering talk. particular, critically analyse hegemonic frames UK challenges these pose fathers. conclude suggesting that are not cultural dopes but agents, struggling institutional norms fatherhood. Finally recommendations for further scholarly on fluidity so it may be embraced side-lined favour normative constructs.