Fathers' experiences with domestic labor during the COVID-19 pandemic in the United States

The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted family life as traditional institutions (e.g., work, schools, childcare) were altered to address public health safety. These changes required families to adapt to new work and childcare routines. Much of the research on domestic labor during the pandemic has rightly focused on mothering and relied on quantitative methods. Less is known about the experiences of fathers who participated in domestic labor during the pandemic. The current qualitative study focused on fathers' (n = 24) experience with domestic labor during the pandemic. Data collection included demographic surveys and in-depth interviews. Phenomenological analysis was implemented, and four themes were identified: (a) Resource availability, (b) Communication and negotiation, (c) Work-life adaptations, and (d) Caring for children's needs.