Journeys of a Mr. Mom

One of the family issues that the society faces today that has resistance to change is the situation of a husband as the caretaker of the house. The question who takes care of the bill and who takes care of the house causes conflict. Focusing on women empowerment and become the breadwinners of the family, men are put in the sidelight. Basing on the experiences from the husbands everyday endeavors and feelings on this kind of family set-up, the researcher trusts to assess the impact on their personality and ego, their relationship with their wives, relationship with friends, relationship with in-laws, and career advancement. This research used phenomenological approach where in-depth interviews were conducted to seven househusbands. It revealed that some husbands said that they lost confidence, and they feel intimidated by their wives which often lead to disagreements. They feel that their friends perceived them as weak in terms of making decisions. Their relationship with in-laws left them feel aloof and awkward whenever there are family gatherings. These husbands still want to work, but some of them do not know where to start. These dilemmas often left the husbands feel useless, have low self-esteem, and weak personality. This role reversal, to some husbands, often result in misunderstandings with their wives, and, to some, to their in-laws. Through these findings, this study is hoping to serve as an eye-opener to all that not all husbands who stay in the house, or that their wives are earning higher than them, are doing nothing. The wife, the society, and the people that surround the husband need to understand that behind every great woman, theres often a slightly aggrieved, under-appreciated man. The perception of the husbands needs to be changed, and a series of seminars and consultations with marriage counselors are suggested supported by the Community Extension Services in partnership with Gender and Development of Nueva Ecija University and Science and Technology.