Pregnancy: reproduction or change? Division of labour in Chilean heterosexual couples during their first pregnancy

Valentina S. Arriagada, Mauricio Toval-Gajardo, Francisca C. Pérez

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Relatively few studies have addressed the division of labour during the first pregnancy, a period in which the couple is restructured as a result of its new parental role. This study is aimed at exploring how heterosexual couples residing in Santiago de Chile organise the division of paid, domestic and caregiving work, and what arguments support their choices. A qualitative, cross-sectional and multiple-case methodology was employed. Interviews were held with ten couples during their first pregnancy. A hybrid thematic analysis revealed that the transition to parenthood is marked by the traditionalisation of gender roles, with certain differences related to socioeconomic status being observed. Results are discussed in light of co-responsibility and gender norms in Latin America, while their implications for family dynamics and public policy are presented.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)69-85
Number of pages17
JournalFamilies, Relationships and Societies
Volume13
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - Feb 2024
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • care
  • co-responsibility
  • division of labour
  • domestic work
  • gender roles
  • paid work

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