Becoming a father to two daughters in 2014 and 2015 reshaped my perspective on the value of daughters, a topic I had often pondered as a feminist economist. The presence of my girls made me more attuned to the challenges they might face in the future. Additionally, caring for my mother later on provided me with insights into the intricacies of caregiving.
Research from 2008 suggested that fathers of daughters tend to show increased empathy towards policies benefiting women. While the impact of raising daughters on fathers’ political leanings remains debated, the broader idea that daughters can draw attention to societal barriers resonates with me. As my daughters grew up in Kuala Lumpur, I aimed for them to have diverse opportunities beyond societal expectations.
In many Asian cultures, sons have historically been seen as the primary caregivers for aging parents. However, a study conducted by my colleagues at Chulalongkorn University in Thailand, published in the Journal of Happiness Studies in 2023, highlighted that living with an adult child, particularly a daughter, was linked to greater happiness among older individuals in Thailand. A positive relationship with a daughter living in the same household was associated with enhanced well-being for both mothers and fathers.
It is important not to misconstrue these findings as a justification for burdening daughters with caregiving responsibilities. Cultural norms in Bangladesh, for example, may place conflicting demands on educated daughters, expecting them to juggle career aspirations with caregiving duties. It is crucial to acknowledge and address these challenges to ensure fairness and equity.
My personal experience of caring for my mother following a serious injury underscored the tangible demands of caregiving. It reshaped my understanding of the complexities involved in providing care on a daily basis. Care work requires not only affection but also time, skills, resources, and reliable support.
Through caregiving, children can learn the value of expressing love through practical actions and understand that caregiving is not gender-specific. Families should not solely rely on children to meet care needs; accessible services and support systems are essential to ensure the well-being of older individuals and caregivers.
Ultimately, valuing daughters for their choices and fostering a society where caregiving is shared and accessible to all are crucial steps towards creating a more inclusive and supportive community.
Dr. M Niaz Asadullah is a distinguished economist at Dhaka University and a visiting professor at the University of Reading in the UK.
