In a column published in Attorney at Law Magazine, family law attorney Rebecca Palmer writes that even though corporate strides have been made in terms of granting paternity leave, only 5% of fathers take two weeks or more to bond with their newborn children. The reasons many dads do not take parental leave vary, but they include certain outdated gender roles as well as entrenched cultural attitudes about not taking time away from work.

“Fathers often worry that stepping away from the office will make them appear less committed to their jobs, risking stalled promotions or other missed opportunities,” Palmer writes. “The competitive nature of many industries amplifies this fear, leading fathers to prioritize their careers over bonding with their children.”

Palmer says that a more liberal policy of paternal leave will foster stronger familial bonds, reduce stress, and promote a greater sense of equality—which is especially important as society often still casts mothers as the primary caregivers. Furthermore, men who take advantage of paternal leave are more likely to benefit their children in terms of long-term emotional health, and they are also more likely to help out their partners who may be recovering from postpartum difficulties.

“Moreover, when dads take leave, it models partnership and equity for the child’s older siblings, setting an example of shared responsibilities,” Palmer writes. “Taking paternity leave is more than just a personal choice; it’s a step toward changing the narrative of fatherhood and creating a more equitable society.”

Read the story in full; click here.