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Conversations with the Experts: Dual Earner Couples and the Transition to Parenthood: Study Looks at Challenges Facing Working Class Families (PDF)
By Sloan Work and Family Research Network, Boston College , Eds.
The Network News, 5, 2; Summer, 2003

Summary: This document presents the results of a study that explored the work and family issues faced by the working class who are transitioning into parenthood. The experiences of 150 couples were examined in which the mother returned to work within six months after giving birth. Data suggest that policymakers have been asking the wrong questions when it comes to the working class. Traditional family-friendly employee benefits do not apply to this segment of the population. In general, low-wage earners do not enjoy the same benefits as those in white-collar occupations. A paid family leave policy at the Federal or State level and legislation addressing mandatory overtime would ease the pressures on new parents. Working-class families face unique challenges when combining work and family life; these challenges will require unique solutions.

Index Terms: Economically Disadvantaged, Employer Role, Low Income Families, Parenting, Working Parents, Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), Family And Medical Leave Act Of 1993 (FMLA), National Institute Of Mental Health

Sponsoring Institution (or Funding Source): Alfred P. Sloan Foundation

Publication Type: Viewpoints

Pages: 20 pages
Language: English
URL: http://wfnetwork.bc.edu/The_Network_News/5-2/TNN5-2.pdf

Availability
Sloan Work and Family Research Network
Boston College
3 Lake Street Building, 2nd Floor
140 Commonwealth Avenue
Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts 02467
617-552-1708
FAX: 617-552-9202
wfnetwork@bc.edu
http://wfnetwork.bc.edu/

 
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