Fathers

When a man becomes a father, he finds himself at the center of many different and sometimes conflicting interests. The demands and expectations placed on fathers, their role, their tasks, and their responsibilities have increased overall. Whereas in the past, the role of fathers was reduced to that of breadwinner, today they have multiple tasks: sharing the work of raising children with the mother, taking responsibility for their children's well-being, and, last but not least, teaching their children what it means to be a good man in the sense of “caring masculinity.”

Fathers are therefore a very important target group for men's work, as it is clear that many fathers are overwhelmed by the new challenges, not least because they have no role models for this new role.

Even in the first years of life, fathers have the task of gently and safely supporting their children on their way into the world. This should also be done with sensitive consideration for other relationships that are important to the child, especially those with the other parent. This task is a new challenge for fathers, as it was not required or expected of them in previous generations.

It is important that fathers establish high-quality contact with their children from the outset. This should be done by consciously turning their attention to their children. Here, too, we would like to help shape these relationships.

Mothers still do most of the childcare work. However, more and more children are experiencing active fathers or fathers who take time off work to devote themselves entirely to caring for their children. These fathers need our solidarity and encouragement. The change that has been set in motion needs positive media coverage and legal support.

Fathers are also important role models as partners. They can show children how to build a happy relationship, how to resolve conflicts without violence, and how to live and enjoy mutual affection.

Gender-equitable parenting education needs father-specific programs to reduce fathers' inhibitions about taking advantage of such programs.

We place particular emphasis on ensuring that fathers can continue to be good fathers after separation and divorce. In addition to support and assistance in acute crises, e.g. with authorities and government agencies, this also includes help in building a sustainable relationship with the ex-partner and mother of the child. We are convinced that fatherhood after separation can be lived well if the relationship with the ex-partner and mother of the child is based on trust. A divorce rate of almost 50 percent and the loss of contact between many children and their fathers highlight the great need for good support for fathers after separation. Children have a right to quality contact with both parents after a separation, and parents have an obligation to make this possible for their children.

What the DMÖ is committed to

• An Austrian fathers' report that compiles data on the situation of (expectant) fathers in Austria and identifies ways to better support them.
• Overcoming a work culture in companies that is geared toward permanent availability.
   
• Improving political and corporate frameworks through incentive systems that enable and promote everyday paternal presence.
• Accompanying and supporting fathers in finding their role as active and authentic fathers and living contemporary fatherhood in everyday life.
   
• Awareness-raising measures and campaigns aimed at fathers themselves, but also at business, society, and politics, to raise awareness of paternal roles, responsibilities, and potential.
• Initiate, promote, and support model projects for holistic, real-life support for fathers in separation situations.

Implement positive images of fatherhood in public to create role models that are currently lacking in some cases.