Question

Flexible work family policies are available to some workers (primarily white collar workers) but not others (blue or pink collar workers). Moreover, female workers are more likely to utilize such policies than men. How does the fact that not all workers have access to such policies perpetuate inequalities in labor market outcomes? How might more equitable use of these policies be encouraged?

Answer 1

Work-family policies have indeed gained a lot of policy attraction decently as the quality of life becomes a major issue to deal with worldwide. It has adverse impacts fo labor force participation, especially for women. Due to natural reasons, most women who think of raising a family have to take some time off during work to conceive or post-birth child care. Now if a women is not being provided enough support during these times, it can seriously dampen their motivation to join the workforce ex ante, resulting in lower women labor force participation. This can seriously their bargaining power in the labor market and result in lower wages for women. One of the obvious reasons why all firms should allow these policies relate to the productivity of the employees. Flexible work-family policies are essential in improving the job as well as life satisfaction of the people which can boost their long run productivity and a feeling of belonging with the firm. thus, although in the short run the firm may face increased costs, in the long run it will benefit from the improved productivity and happier employees.The firms can also be given some form of tax breaks (till the time most companies come on board) to encourage better work family policies.