Combining employment and parenthood: A longitudinal study of intentions of Dutch young adults

Authors: Beets G.C.N.¹; Liefbroer A.C.¹; Jong Gierveld J.D.^{1, 2}

Source: Population Research and Policy Review, Volume 16, Number 5, October 1997 , pp. 457-474(18)

Publisher: Springer

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Abstract:

This paper examines the intentions of Dutch males and females with regard to combining paid employment and parenthood. Four models of how couples combine these roles are distinguished. Panel data from a representative survey among Dutch young adults show that the traditional model (the female takes care of the children and the male works full-time) is becoming less popular, whereas the supplementary model (the female takes care of the children and supplements the labor force participation of the male), and the egalitarian model (both partners share paid labor more or less equally) are becoming more popular. The no-child model is preferred by about 10% of the respondents. A multivariate analysis shows that both job characteristics, like the flexibility of working hours, and gender role attitudes are important predictors of intentions with regard to combining family and work roles.

Keywords: Childcare facilities; Gender roles; Labor force participation; Policies; Young adults

Language: English

Document Type: Regular paper

Affiliations: 1: Netherlands Interdisciplinary Demographic Institute, The Hague; 2: Department of Social Research Methodology, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam,

Publication date: 1997-10-01