This unique volume uses the innovative methodological approach of fictocriticism to analyse the influence of patriarchal discourse on parents at work in organisational contexts, paying particular attention to the motherhood penalty and patriarchal dividend. Integrating theories on caring, hybrid, and hegemonic masculinities and gendered organizations, this book problematises the ideal worker-breadwinner-motherhood penalty triad of gendered working and explores the subversive potential of parents forming communities at work. The author lays the theoretical and conceptual groundwork for understanding the sociological problem of gender inequity amongst working parents. A dystopian fiction narrative, grounded in empirical research, then highlights the structural and cultural barriers faced by parents working in a masculine organisation, as well as alluding to the potential of cultural change through collective organising and the subversive potential of caring masculinities. Finally, the author draws together the theoretical and methodological underpinnings of the fictocriticism, its relevance to contemporary research, and implications for future scholarship.

This book will be of interest to scholars, researchers and students in Gender Studies, Family Studies, and Organization Studies.