Video | China’s ‘full-time dads’ challenge patriarchal norms

Cooking, cleaning and caring for children during the day, Chen Hualiang takes on household tasks that many Chinese fathers tend to leave to their wives.

Chen’s experiences not only buck a deep-rooted patriarchal tradition – they have also inspired a hit television show.

The former project manager gave up the workplace rat race to join the growing ranks of what are known as “full-time dads” in China.

The trend has coincided with a broader recognition of women’s rights and access to higher education in the country.

But despite embracing the unconventional gender role, many full-time dads still face pushback from their families and the wider community.