Taiwanese Fathers Prefer Cash and Travel Over Traditional Gifts This Father's Day

Fathers in Taiwan are prioritizing practical gifts like cash and travel over traditional items for Father's Day, according to a recent survey. The most desired gifts include money, domestic travel, department store vouchers, international travel, and smartphones. Conversely, items like tea sets, cosmetic surgery services, ties, belts, and shirts were ranked as the least desired.

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Compared to traditional gifts, working fathers hope to receive gifts that can truly alleviate life pressure and increase leisure time.

The survey, conducted by yes123 Job Network, also highlighted the significant stress faced by working fathers. A staggering 93.6% admitted to wanting to escape home for a break, ideally for an average of 8.7 days. Over half (56.7%) felt they had no personal rest days throughout the year, with a fatigue index reaching 81.5, a seven-year high.

Work pressure is a major contributor to this exhaustion. Fathers reported working an average of 10.6 hours daily, with overtime on 3.1 days per week. Around 85% work over nine hours on weekdays, spending only about 50 minutes with their children. Nearly 30% admitted to having almost no time for their children, sharing dinner with them only 2.3 days a week on average.

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As many as 93.6% of working fathers have had the idea of 'leaving home to take a breather,' with an average desire for a consecutive 8.7-day break.

Financial strain adds to the burden. The average father has not received a salary increase in 5.5 years, a 13-year record. Over 16% have gone more than a decade without a raise. More than 70% lack discretionary income, with most earnings going to family expenses. A significant 38.7% are the sole financial providers for their households.

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The average working father has not had a raise in 5.5 years, a new high in 13 years.

Yang Tsung-pin, spokesperson for yes123 Job Network, described working fathers as the "sandwich generation," juggling roles as fathers, husbands, and caregivers amidst inflation, mortgage payments, and childcare costs. He advised companies to foster supportive work environments, offer professional development to mitigate unemployment risks, and provide comprehensive welfare and childcare support to ease family burdens.

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In addition to providing a more friendly work environment, companies should also assist employees in continuous learning and cultivating second skills.