Women, Work and Family in Britain and Germany: A Project of the Anglo-German Foundation for the Study of Industrial Society

The book explores how working women manage the 'balancing act between family and work, considering their attitudes to work, families, and managers, and the role of trade unions, employers, and the state.

Format: Hardback
Length: 216 pages
Publication date: 24 August 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Many working women face a significant conflict between the demands of their work and the demands of family life. This conflict is further complicated by changing perceptions about the role of women in society. To address this issue, innovative work patterns are required. This book, originally published in 1986, conducts extensive original research to examine how working women manage the "balancing act between family and work." It explores their attitudes towards work, their families, and their managers and fellow workers. Additionally, it examines the role of trade unions, employers, and the state in resolving this conflict. By drawing on data gathered from different countries and various work environments, the book contrasts differing responses to the same basic conflict.

The conflict between work and family life is a pressing issue for many working women. The traditional notion of a woman's primary responsibility being caring for her family has been challenged by the increasing demands of the workplace. As a result, many women find themselves struggling to balance the demands of their careers with the needs of their families.

One of the main challenges facing working women is the long hours and irregular work schedules that are often required in many industries. This can make it difficult for women to maintain a healthy work-life balance and can lead to feelings of exhaustion, stress, and burnout. Additionally, women may face discrimination in the workplace, such as lower pay and fewer opportunities for advancement, which can further exacerbate the conflict between work and family life.

Changing perceptions about the role of women in society are also contributing to the conflict between work and family life. Women are now expected to be more independent and self-sufficient, and they are less likely to rely on their husbands or fathers to provide financial support. This can put pressure on women to work longer hours and take on more responsibility at work to meet their financial needs.

To address the conflict between work and family life, innovative work patterns are needed. One approach is to provide flexible work arrangements, such as part-time work, remote work, or job sharing. This can allow women to balance their work responsibilities with their family obligations and can reduce the stress and exhaustion that can come from long hours and irregular work schedules.

Another approach is to promote work-life balance policies and practices in the workplace. This can include providing paid parental leave, flexible work hours, and employee assistance programs that support work-life balance. Employers can also promote a culture of respect and support for women in the workplace, which can help to reduce discrimination and promote a healthy work-life balance.

In addition to these measures, changing societal attitudes towards the role of women in society are also important. Women need to be encouraged to pursue their careers and to achieve their goals, without feeling guilty about neglecting their families. Society needs to recognize the value of women's contributions to the workplace and to provide support and resources to help women achieve their full potential.

In conclusion, the conflict between work and family life is a significant issue for many working women. Changing perceptions about the role of women in society and innovative work patterns are needed to address this issue. By promoting flexible work arrangements, promoting work-life balance policies and practices, and changing societal attitudes towards the role of women, we can create a more equitable and supportive work environment for all women.

Weight: 590g
Dimension: 216 x 138 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032305066