Despite the availability of New Jersey's Paid Family Leave Insurance (NJ FLI) program to both parents, fathers accounted for only 29.7% of bonding claimants in 2023. The NJ FLI provides cash benefits for bonding with a newborn, newly adopted, or foster child, and caring for seriously ill family members. Since its inception in 2009, the program has been improved and expanded, allowing eligible residents up to 12 consecutive weeks of leave with a maximum benefit of 85% of wages subject to a cap.
Research identifies several barriers deterring fathers from utilizing parental leave, including peer and employer pressure, career concerns, lack of awareness, and economic constraints. "There is a very real stigma dads can face when taking leave to bond with their new children," states Yarrow Willman-Cole from the NJ Time to Care Coalition. He emphasizes that job protection is crucial as "the fear of job loss is a major reason for dads opting not to take leave."
The importance of paternal leave is supported by research indicating neurological and hormonal changes in fathers that enhance parenting effectiveness. Studies highlight oxytocin's role in father-infant bonding through contact with newborns.
Governor Murphy’s commitment to providing economic security includes fully paid parental leave for state employees welcoming new children. His 2025 budget allocates $10 million toward this initiative. Although primarily benefiting public sector workers, it aims to encourage similar policies across all sectors.
Addressing social stigmas remains essential despite policy advancements. A cultural shift in perception towards fathers staying home during crucial moments is necessary alongside employer support emphasizing the value of paternal involvement.
Job protection integration into paid leave policies is another recommendation ensuring fathers can take time off without fearing job loss. Such measures would promote equitable workplace environments benefiting overall family well-being.
To normalize shared caregiving responsibilities further requires overcoming existing barriers preventing fathers from accessing paid leave options effectively—affecting not just individual families but broader societal structures as well.
Dads are encouraged to share experiences regarding Paid Family Leave participation or non-participation aiding future advocacy efforts.
