Faculty and Family Policies in Higher Education

Abstract

This article provides a review of existing policies in higher education institutions that affect faculty and their families, and identifies areas for advocacy and research. Anecdotal evidence suggests that there is great variability in policies both between and within universities and that the effects of certain of these policies may discriminate unfairly against women. Thus dual-career problems and parental concerns are reviewed within the context of gender equity. The implications of these policies for recruitment and retention of faculty and for the tenure and promotion process are considered.