Women and Flexibility in the Workplace Essay - 1215 Words

Women and Flexibility in the Workplace Gina Carithers SOC402 Michael Burton December 17, 2012 Women and Flexibility in the Workplace The focus of this paper is to evaluate factors that have affected women`s pay in the workforce. The analysis of historical factors affecting women`s flexibility in the workplace as a continuous social and structural issue is added to the paper to explain the need for change because of the demands that accompany working female caregivers in the home. Historical and statistical data is provided to validate the issues surrounding unequal pay scales women commonly experience in the workplace. A hypothesis is developed to suggest the type`s of change that women hope to see take place in the†¦show more content†¦Ã¢â‚¬Å"At the time the law was passed, it was estimated that women were earning 59% of the average wage† (Giraffe, 2011). In 2011 the estimate had risen to 82% ratio of pay for women compared to men. Lower pay scales for women means lower retirement benefits, pension pay, and 401k`s. The low pay scales were insulting enough to t he female gender but deeper issued existed such as the flexibility needed to care for children, home, and personal healthcare. Structural and Social Concerns Surrounding Women in the Workforce Women are typically the nurturers in the home. Mother`s have been responsible for childcare, PTA, grade-mothers, and sports moms for many generations before males began filling the roles because females were working outside the homes. Although it is not uncommon in todays society to see dad`s stay at home and fill the roles typically filled by women; it is a relatively new role for males in the last 25 years. The National Organization for Women, 2012, reports that, â€Å"Different societal expectations for wives compared to husbands and mothers compared to fathers†. Taylor, 2000, quotes Rita Donaghy, president of the Trades Union Congress, stating, â€Å"We want to see a labor market which does not penalize mothers but rather uses their skills in a modern and dynamic economy†. Women with children face issues such as childcare, adequate after school programs, leaving children unattended, and the cost for s uch care. WhileShow MoreRelatedHow The Flexibility Of Women During The Workplace Is A Social And Structural Issue1511 Words   |  7 Pagesthe flexibility of women in the workplace is a social and structural issue, research on various subjects such as history of women in the workforce, women’s rights, and equal opportunity should be key factors when determining them. Kathleen Christensen, recognized for her expertise on work-family issues and workplace flexibility states that flexibility of women in the workplace is a social and structural issue (sloan.org). 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