Are men’s preferences for couple equity misperceived? Evidence from six countriesISER External Seminars

Gender gaps in labor supply and household responsibilities persist. Using representative survey data from 24,000 respondents across six countries, this paper explores the actual and perceived preferences of men for couple equity. We document that in all six countries, the majority of men state they prefer an equitable division of tasks within the household. At the same time, the actual share of men preferring couple equity is systematically underestimated in all six countries. The perceived shares vary substantially across the population and are positively associated with respondents’ own preferences for couple equity. Providing respondents with truthful information about the actual share of men preferring couple equity in their country shifts individual beliefs, stated preferences for couple equity, and the willingness to pay for it. The estimated treatment effects are mainly driven by respondents who initially underestimated the actual share.

Presented by:

Teodora Boneva (University of Bonn)

Date & time:

October 22, 2025 12:30 pm - October 22, 2025 1:30 pm

Venue:

Online: https://essex-university.zoom.us/j/96225051152


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