Economic uncertainty as a circumstance of decision making about parenthood and childbearing: researches and policies

Abstract

This text deals with the effects of economic uncertainty on the decision-making about becoming a parent or extending the family with another child. The goal is to highlight the influences of these circumstances as a significant determining factor of reproductive behaviour in post-industrial societies. In research, economic uncertainty is operationalized through employment, analyzing rates and stability. Gender roles are determinants of positions in the private as well as in the public sphere and, because of that, they are considered as key framework of consideration. Literature and statistics testify to the disadvantages regarding women's employment as well as to the negative impact of economic uncertainty either through delaying or giving up parenthood and childbearing. We conclude that employment is a significant precondition for positive decisions and at the same time, the importance of certainty and stability in terms of employment is emphasized. We underline the necessity of policies which create the conditions so that childcare is not a factor that endangers women's employment or the job security of both mothers and fathers.