Parenthood experienced gendered impact on the image of masculinity and femininity amidst the COVID-19 crisis reflecting new sociocultural norms of stay-at-home dads. Integrating peer-reviewed studies highlight how the COVID-19 influenced an economic crisis that affected gender inequality, parenthood responsibility, and perceptions on masculinity and femininity. Among other impacts, the COVID-19 Pandemic has been ensured by an economic crisis that has severely implicated gender inequality. Increased need for childcare during the Pandemic and disproportionate economic and employment aftermaths of COVID-19 caused a surge in the number of stay-at-home dads. Utilizing a Marxist-feminist conceptualization of women’s domestic responsibilities and labor process analysis indicates a risk of intensified gender disparity due to COVID-19. Working from home during the Pandemic disproportionately affected women and intensified work-family conflict. Theoretical review study indicates an intersection between feminism and crisis management resolutions during COVID-19. Masculine logic influences the ethical assumptions and dimensions of approaching COVID-19 encouraging men to avoid parental duties. There was more equality in the distribution of household labor during COVID-19. Although fathers’ contributions to domestic chores improved, mothers endured more responsibilities. Gender patterns have altered with increased paternal responsibilities for fathers. The article highlight that enhanced paternal duties for fathers has positively implicated gender role attitudes and emotional bonding. A peer review study highlight that the COVID-19 crisis has deconstructed the gender order. The Pandemic has shattered the two primary construction sites of masculinity: work and family. A literature review indicated that traditional norms of masculinity have caused increased stigmatization of men undertaking childcare responsibilities. Masculinity restrains men from household chores and perceives them as providers and breadwinners. Besides COVID-19, social norms over the decades have become more egalitarian, resulting in the “Daddy Shift” effect. Perspective changes over time have altered role construction and redefined masculinity that does not prohibit the division of household labor. However, cross-study literature highlights that femininity and masculinity differ between men and women. The difference has caused dynamic responses toward COVID-19. Qualitative and longitudinal data indicate that COVID-19 had devastating consequences on the image and perception of masculinity. Men have responded by enhancing their adherence to masculinity norms that valorize strength and boldness.
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