McDowall, Almuth and Kinman, Gail (2020) Work-life balance and gender: challenging assumptions and unravelling complexity. In: Hassard, Juliet and Torres, L. (eds.) Aligning Perspectives in Gender Mainstreaming. Gender, Health, Safety & WellBeing. Aligning Perspectives on Health, Safety and Well-Being. London, UK: Springer, pp. 37-60. ISBN 9783030532680.
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Abstract
This chapter critically examines the role of gender in work-life balance research. We contextualise the focal topic by first summarising the changing nature of work and domestic roles and the influence of demographic and social shifts. We revisit the meaning of ‘work-life balance’ in light of the diverse and sometimes conflicting conceptualisations used by academics and practitioners. A review of the evidence for gender differences in work-life balance needs and experiences is then provided, with a particular focus placed on caring responsibilities. This leads us to consider the policies and practices that are designed to support work-life balance initiatives are then considered, focusing specifically on flexible working, together with the extent to which these are ‘gender neutral’ both in terms of relevance and uptake. The paper is interspersed with relevant case studies to illustrate the points made. The chapter concludes by setting out priorities for research and practice to promote equitable and effective systemic solutions to improve work-life balance for all.
Metadata
| Item Type: | Book Section |
|---|---|
| Additional Information: | Series ISSN: 2213-0497. This is an Author Accepted Manuscript version of the chapter, reproduced with permission. The final authenticated version is available online at the link above. |
| Keyword(s) / Subject(s): | work-life balance, gender, caring roles, flexible working |
| School: | Birkbeck Faculties and Schools > Faculty of Science > School of Psychological Sciences |
| Depositing User: | Almuth Mcdowall |
| Date Deposited: | 24 Mar 2021 18:37 |
| Last Modified: | 07 Aug 2023 16:10 |
| URI: | https://eprints.bbk.ac.uk/id/eprint/32207 |
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