Why Dads Hesitate To Take Paternity Leave?

If you are not one of those unlucky dads who were 'travelling' when their baby was born, then you would know that it is a very special experience. Now that dads get to see the birth of their baby first hand, it is a really enriching experience for them. But the frenzy of welcoming a baby to the house doesn't end as soon as the baby is born. That is why; there is something called paternity leave that is given to new dads nowadays.

Paternity leave is still a new concept in most organistaions. That is why; most new dads are confused how much paternity leave they are entitled to take. The debate however is not whether you get paid paternity leave or not. It is still a 50-50 scenario in most organisation.

Your company is not compelled to give you paternity leave while maternity leave is compulsory. However, it has been seen that most dads shy away from taking paternity leave even if it is given to them.

Why is that men are reluctant to take paternity leave even when it is paid? Here are some reasons that you can take a look at.

Official Hegemony
Most organisations offer paternity leave but do not encourage employees to take it. Dads suffer from anxiety that taking a long off from work will make their boss and colleagues think that they are not committed to the job.

Urgent Projects
Many a times, dads have to return to work sooner that they had planned because the baby comes unexpectedly when they have some pressing work in office. If the birth of your baby does not coincide with your planned paternity leave, there might be some issues.

The Pay
How much paternity leave you can take also depends on whether or not it is paid for. If you have paid leave, then you can easily take it. But if you have to take the break out of your earned leaves, then most people would be reluctant.

You might not take off from work because you feel you are now responsible for providing for the family. But you will surely regret it later. At least a week of paternity leave is justified when your baby is born. If you have the privilege of paid leave, then you can extend it to two weeks so that you can settle the new mommy at home with the baby comfortably.