Paper short abstract:

Raising children is perceived as increasingly difficult in Lagos. Women are mainly responsible for childcare and household while also creating income. In light of the absence of men in research on fertility and reproduction, I look at the compatibility of family and career from their perspective.

Paper long abstract:

Families in Lagos, Nigeria, are facing increasing financial pressures due to the economic crisis. This is a reason for some to postpone and limit having children. To raise these children appropriately, almost all couples have to rely on incomes from both partners. With the conventional role ideals, this means that women are mainly responsible for childcare and household chores while also working outside of the house. Beyond that, in the fields of fertility, family planning and parenthood, the absence of men and masculinity seems to persist.

In line with the „seeming over-emphasis on women‘s rights and well-being“ in gender studies, my PhD project and currently ongoing research (04/2023 - 05/2024) focus on formally employed women in Lagos and how they manage their fertility through methods to prevent, time or facilitate births. These can be seen as strategies to make family and career more compatible.

But the underlying structures and role ideals also concern and impact men, which is the topic I propose for this panel. Having several children creates demands in care, household and financial provision. Men and women are responsible for different aspects of family life, gender roles are changing. From (in)fertility management, antenatal and childbirth to childcare - how are men involved in the different phases of reproduction? What are the underlying ideals and societal expectations? What impact do employment structures and work schedules have on paternal roles?