Our newly published working paper explores the role informal childcare plays in mitigating work-family conflict for those with demanding working time schedules. This sits within the context of how globalisation and technological advancements have reshaped labour markets, making work schedules increasingly demanding for many. The research addresses the heightened work expectations beyond standard working hours and the necessity of continuous skill updates, which have exacerbated the pressures of balancing professional responsibilities with family life, particularly for parents juggling caregiving duties.
While the role of formal childcare in alleviating work-family conflict has been extensively studied, this new report, based on data from the Panel Analysis of Intimate Relationships and Family Dynamics, brings into focus the often-overlooked contributions of informal childcare. The study provides compelling evidence on how support from family members and friends plays a crucial role in helping parents navigate the rising demands of modern work schedules.
The report highlights a crucial finding: informal childcare support plays a significant role in mitigating work-family conflict amongst dual earner couples in Europe. This type of support, particularly from family members, serves as a buffer against the pressures of demanding work schedules. The study reveals that both mothers and fathers experience a reduction in work-family conflict when they receive help from their social networks.
One of the report’s key findings is that mothers tend to benefit most from informal childcare provided by maternal grandmothers, while fathers appear to derive more support from other family members and friends. This distinction underscores the different ways in which gender roles and expectations shape the management of work and family life in Europe.
The study’s findings have important implications for policymakers and employers who can play a role by recognising the significance of these informal networks and encouraging policies that facilitate work-life balance. As Europe’s labour markets continue to evolve, the importance of social networks in mitigating work-family conflict cannot be overlooked.
The full paper can be found here.