Economic Restructuring, Gender and the Allocation of Time

Citation:

Floro, Maria Sagrario. 1995. "Economic Restructuring, Gender and the Allocation of Time." World Development 23 (11): 1913-1929.

Author: Maria Sagrario Floro

Abstract:

A significant aspect of economic life takes place in an area of production largely ignored in standard macroeconomic analysis, namely, the household production of nonmarketed goods and services. These household-produced goods and services are vital for social reproduction and human development. Moreover, there is a dynamic interaction between their production and that of the market economy as household members, especially women, must allocate their time between the two sets of economic activities. Section 2 provides some stylized facts about the nature and scope of nonmarket activities taking place within the household unit and how they relate to the market economy. Methodological issues concerning the measurement of the production of nonmarketed goods and services and of time-use patterns are discussed in section 3. Sections 4 and 5 examine the empirical evidence regarding the intensity of time devoted to nonmarket and market work by women, and the resulting consequences on their well-being as well as on the development of children. There are longterm serious economic and welfare consequences of these responses that make such a topic an urgent one for both academics and policy makers alike. A summary of the major points raised concludes the paper. (Abstract from original)

Topics: Economies, Gendered Power Relations, Gender Equality/Inequality, Households, Privatization

Year: 1995