This project (1) extends understanding of the impact of ICTs on the daily life of working parents; (2) provides in-depth knowledge of how working time, including many dimensions, affect family life and (3) develops a theoretical model of the family time economy which is analysed by empirical data (Mahler et al., 2008; Pahl, 1995). It contributes to existing data on family life and ICTs and research on work and family life. The project is based on recognition that despite vast amount of literature on work-family relations and working time (Bianci & Millkie, 2010), there is a dearth of research analysing time as a family resource, especially in the context of post-industrial work schedules and the impact that ICTs have on the family life of working parents.
Goal
Time is fundamental to the orchestration and synchronization of social life. Families have their own rhythms and schedules, yet neither individuals nor families are isolated from the structures of the surrounding society. Dual-earner couples are particularly prone to difficulties with time, due to the number of schedules which must be coordinated (Moen, 2003; Gallie & Russell, 2009). Maintaining a fulfilling family life entails family members spending time together face-time (Strazdins et al., 2011). ICTs are changing the temporal and spatial parameters of social life and family time Research on working life has demonstrated that paid work is moving beyond its traditional temporal and spatial boundaries. These changes bring with them new issues and questions.
Funding source
Academy of Finland
Contact persons
Mia Tammelin
Academy of Finland Research Fellow
mia.tammelin [at] uta.fi
+358 50 437 7504