Consequences of the Changing Sexual Division of Labor

Abstract

The trend of women's entering parts of the labor market that were traditionally male dominated is common across most Western industrialized economies. It looks set to continue, with more role models available for girls and more financial and educational resources released that women can use to improve their circumstances. Though some prejudices will be dispelled by the performance of competent women workers, some men will seek to contain women's activities, on account of threats to their power and prestige in both home and work life. Women will still have to battle to realize the opportunities that are presented—as well as coping with, or transforming, the double burden of housework and formal employment. The ensuing conflicts are liable to intensify the critique of traditional concepts of masculinity and femininity. Suppressed grievances and insecurities are liable to come to light. This ferment has the potential to increase social justice—in family life, formal work, and more broadly—but this outcome cannot be taken for granted. © 1992, SAGE PUBLICATIONS. All rights reserved.