Abstract:

In Australia there are socio-demographic differences in children’s outcomes. Evidence suggests that these differences can extend into adulthood. Work and family structures are important environmental influences on children’s development, which may contribute to inequality; however, it is not well understood how the impact of parental work arrangements on children varies between different families. This project seeks to understand how the work‑family interface differs between families with different characteristics. Its focus is on how and why the relationship between parents’ work and outcomes for both parents and children may vary by contextual factors. This project draws on the Longitudinal Study of Australian Children. Preliminary analyses indicate that the relationships between maternal work, work-family conflict, and children’s socio-emotional development are affected by household financial hardship levels, indicating that socio-economic context is a key consideration to take into account when assessing the impact of maternal work and work stress. This research aims to contribute to our understanding of intergenerational transmission of disadvantage in Australia. The links between parents’ jobs and outcomes for different families have implications for future employment, family and welfare policies.

Meg Kingsley is a PhD candidate in the School of Demography. Meg's work experience includes consulting in an independent policy and economics firm, and labour market research and analysis in the Australian Government. She holds a Master of Social Research (Advanced, specialising in research methods and demography) from the Australian National University and a Bachelor of Arts (Honours, majoring in psychology) from the University of Western Australia.