Men, Women, and Work–Life Balance: Then, Now, and in the Future

Williams, Candy

In recent years there has been more discussion around the topics of work, work–life balance, and work–life integration. Many people today spend a large part of their life at work. In some cases, many are working 40 hours a week plus. Today, both men and women are in the workforce. Single People, Single people with children, and Married couples with or without children are working and trying to balance home and work–life while paying the bills. Due to changes in the economy and increases in the cost of living, many people have to work to support their families. There is also a segment of the population that must care for elderly parents. Research shows that some women indicate that the care of family has affected their ability to advance in their careers. How are workers managing it all? What role do employers play? How are families affected? What are some of the options to help with work–life balance? What about work–life integration? How do men and women see the work–life balance? These are some of the areas explored in this chapter.