Characteristics of the underemployed and the overemployed in the UK

Abstract

Underemployment and overemployment represent two scenarios whereby there is a mismatch between an individual's preferred and actual number of work hours. This article examines the levels of underemployment and overemployment in the UK between 2001 and 2010, and describes changes at the time of the 2008-09 recession. Characteristics of the underemployed and the overemployed, in terms of work status, age, sex, qualification, occupation and industry, regions, and earnings, are also presented. These findings are reported while considering the impact of underemployment and overemployment on societal well-being.