Women In Swedish Society

Dr. Annika Forssén is a general practitioner and Associate Professor in Family Medicine at Umea University, Sweden. Dr. Gunilla Carlstedt is a retired general practitioner and PhD. The research presented here was originally published as a joint thesis in Swedish in 1999: Mellan ansvar och makt. En diskussion om arbete, hälsa och ohälsa utifrån tjugo kvinnors livsberättelser. In Women in Swedish Society this material has been substantially revised and updated. The English translation is by Rochelle Wright, Professor Emerita at the University of Illinois, and is published as part of Welsh Academic Press’ Scandinavia and the Baltic - Transnational and International Challenges series edited by Professor Jason Lavery of Oklahoma State University.

‘A fascinating insight ... a vivid picture of personal and professional struggles unimaginable in the modern world ... This engaging book is a testimony to women’s strength and resilience, and will be an essential read to all those who have an interest in the history and future of women’s lives.’ Professor Jane M. Ussher, Western Sydney University; ‘The women upon whom this work is based represent a variety of socio-economic backgrounds making this book particularly important as it provides a window into the diverse circumstances, opportunities, and attitudes that shaped women’s lives throughout the century.’ Professor Mary Beth Ailes , University of Nebraska; ‘The book is remarkable for enabling women to tell what few seek to know: how they strive, what they value, what costs them dear, what rewards their labours. We come away with a better understanding of what causes women’s suffering and what constitutes their wellbeing ... such knowledge is indispensable to doctors evaluating and fostering women’s health.’ Dr. Cynthia Cockburn, City, University of London

• PrefacePart I - Conversations With Twenty Women1. Growing Up2. Couple Relationships and Social Life3. Childbearing4. Caring for Children and Other Family Members5. Running a Household6. In the Work Force7. Health and Illness8. Looking Back, and AheadPart II - Analysis and Discussion9. Childbearing as Work10. Unpaid Work11. Paid Work12. Illness, Medical Care and Society13. Everyday Life and HealthConclusionAppendix: Significant Dates in Women’s History in Sweden