Women and work issues: a study of work as perceived by women

Abstract

This study examines how work is perceived from a women's perspective. It commences with a review of the theoretical material presently available to conceptualise women's work and an analysis of recent research work on this topic. The difficulties and contradictions inherent in studying women's work using existing models of stratification are discussed, and some of the androcentric biases in sociology today are identified. A trend toward a redefinition of the subject matter of sociology and a consequent transformation of existing concepts and methods is noted in recent feminist research and writing. Alternative methods of sociological investigation are evolving from this work. This study selects a methodology consistent with such transformative aims. Twenty women were interviewed first individually and later in two groups in which their perceptions of their work were discussed. The results suggest that 'home' and 'work' were inextricably entwined in women's everyday lives. Events and experiences were seen in an episodic manner. The women valued the broadening and adaptive qualities that came from having to adjust to events outside or beyond their control. Many strove to gain a balance between home, work and personal interests and found satisfaction in achieving this goal. The findings supported the contention that existing models and concepts do not fit women's experiences, and alternative frameworks for examining their work are required.