Long hours and the work devotion schema

This study analyzes why executive men in the United States work long hours. Our respondents embrace the work devotion schema, which defines work as involving social, emotional and moral connections and contributions as well as providing financial compensation and exciting work. We argue that the work devotion schema drives men to participate in the economic logic of competition and productivity while minimizing the time available to care for families. We suggest that the work devotion schema influences the underutilization of corporate parental leave for many managers in the U.S. and undermines efforts to reduce work–family conflict.