Study finds most men who want part-time work stay full-time

A University of Zurich study reported by SRF finds that although many full-time working men develop a preference for part-time work, few act on it. Each year, almost 10 percent want to reduce their working hours, but only one in ten of them does so.

The researchers analysed data from 2004 to 2020 to track when men developed this preference and whether they reduced their hours.

Switzerland has a part-time employment rate of 40 percent among all workers, the second-highest in the OECD. The share of men working part-time has more than doubled since 2000, rising from about 10 percent to more than 20 percent. Across the OECD, it increased from 8 percent to just under 13 percent over the same period.

Workplace norms were a key factor, the study found. Men were less likely to want or take part-time jobs in occupations shaped by expectations that men should provide for their families and show strong commitment to work. The numbers were higher in fields where employers support balancing work and private life.

Study leader Jan Müller said conditions in Switzerland make it relatively feasible for men to reduce their hours. A full-time week of almost 42 hours can make a cut in hours attractive, while high salaries can make it financially more realistic than in other countries.

The study pointed to medicine as an example of changing norms, with more men moving into part-time work. It said the male-breadwinner role had become less important in the profession, while work-life balance had gained weight. Müller said this surprised him in a field known for long overtime hours. The study noted that a growing share of women in medical professions may help explain why men there work part-time relatively often.

The researchers said their findings show what is driving the rise in part-time work among men. Müller said being able to follow personal working-hour preferences can reduce stress and strengthen equality.