EMPLOYMENT AND CARE IN SPANISH FAMILIES WITH DEPENDENCY SITUATIONS: DILEMMAS, PRACTICES AND COSTS

Abstract

Despite an increasing interest in work-family balance in Spain, research has predominantly focused on couples with children without any additional difficulties. This manuscript expands existing knowledge by exploring this issue in families with dependent members due to disability, chronic conditions, or advanced age. Drawing on Centro de Investigaciones Sociológicas' Survey on Dependent Care [Encuesta de Cuidados a Dependientes] descriptive and regression analyses are performed to assess work-family balance dilemmas, the strategies used to face them, and associated costs. The findings reveal considerable difficulties to reconcile employment and care in a context of scant institutional support and notable material needs. As a result, households face situations of high economic vulnerability and their members see their satisfaction with work and life reduced.