The rising phenomenon of stay-at-home husbands (SAHHs) in Hong Kong exemplifies the evolution of masculinities in Asia. The development of emergent masculinities through SAHHs is intertwined with hybrid masculinities to expand the range of visible male roles in an Asian context. The implication of SAHHs is explored through interviews conducted with 31 middle-class SAHHs and 19 wives of SAHHs in Hong Kong. Two key findings are (1) emergent masculinities via SAHHs upend conventional gendered family roles as they become the primary caregivers for their children with notable support from their breadwinner wives and (2) hybrid masculinities in blended gender roles continue to actively evolve in Hong Kong. These findings highlight how emergent masculinities are entwined with hybrid masculinities whereby SAHHs maintain some traditional gender roles and values while embracing tasks associated with child-rearing, which prioritize care, emotional expression, and domesticity. These emerging roles contribute to the literature on masculinity by highlighting Hong Kong SAHHs during the COVID-19 era. The data suggest a reframing of traditional or conventional expectations of masculinities, and through crucial support by their wives, they will continue the trend toward more dynamic gender relations.
Eileen YH Tsang (Sun,) studied this question.