AIR FORCE PARENTAL LEAVE UPTAKE
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Authors
Hartoin, Marissa E.
Subjects
leave
parental leave
maternity
paternity
uptake
use
parental leave
maternity
paternity
uptake
use
Advisors
Bacolod, Marigee
Zefferman, Matthew R.
Date of Issue
2025-03
Date
Publisher
Monterey, CA; Naval Postgraduate School
Language
Abstract
Parental leave policies give parents time to bond, care for children, and recover from birth; support service members’ well-being; and have critical implications for readiness, retention, and long-term health. The DoD expanded its parental leave to 12 weeks for all active-duty parents, including adoptive and long-term foster parents. This thesis examines Air Force parental leave uptake since the policy’s implementation and the factors influencing utilization. Using data from DMDC, LeaveWeb, and Air Force Personnel Information, I conducted a quantitative statistical analysis to determine leave uptake patterns. Regression analysis shows average parental leave use increased by 29 days. I also find men tend to take 35 fewer leave days than women; men tend to front-load their leave while women backload their leave. A statistically significant difference exists between men’s and women’s leave rates, and demographics and MAJCOM affiliation are associated with leave duration. I recommend improving parental leave record-keeping and continued research on the policy’s effects on readiness, retention, and other outcomes. This thesis enhances understanding of parental leave in the Air Force and underscores the need for ongoing policy evaluation to better support service members. Prioritizing service members’ well-being and their families is essential to maintaining a strategic advantage.
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Thesis
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Distribution Statement
Distribution Statement A. Approved for public release: Distribution is unlimited.
Rights
This publication is a work of the U.S. Government as defined in Title 17, United States Code, Section 101. Copyright protection is not available for this work in the United States.