Masculine identity in a "woman's" role: Stay-at-home dads in Northern British Columbia.

This thesis studies masculinity and its effects and influences on men who adopt the traditionally feminine role of primary caregiver. Through a discussion initiated by questions of gender and identity, power and hegemony, this thesis examines the experiences and opinions of men who, in acting outside of hegemonic social expectations, have re-evaluated, and perhaps, re-defined their notions of what it means to be a man. These issues are addressed through a pairing of theoretical and qualitative research of eight stay-at-home dads in Prince George, British Columbia. The primary goal of this research is to illuminate the transitions and barriers of hegemonic masculinity and identify how, or how not, masculine identity changes in a time and culture which encourages gendered change yet maintains traditional standards. As a result, this discussion explores what it means for masculinity - both individually and culturally - when men are not the family breadwinners.