The term is gender specific, but the problem isn't. "Deadbeat parent" would be a more correct term. Generally, the term is used when there is a failure to pay court-ordered child support for some time without due cause. Although many of the parents who are ordered to pay find themselves financially unable to do so, many others reportedly withhold the support to either get back at their former spouse or to angle for more visitation time with their children. Regardless of why they do it, these parents should understand the huge disservice they do, not only to their own children, but to the communities that they live in as well. Parents who do not pay their required child support hurt their child, first, but also hurt themselves. Some job applicants have been denied jobs because of their back support as many employers feel that a person who would shirk responsibility to their own child would not be a good risk for the company. Counties that are already facing huge budget issues must spend time and man hours hunting down "deadbeat dads". More money must be spent trying them in court and if warranted jailing them. It is ironic that these parents are incarcerated at this point, because it should be noted that they will not be paying while sitting in a jail cell.