Ulla Bjornberg – författare

Published in 1997, the aim of this study is to address comparative perspectives on gender and family life in western and eastern Europe. The focus is on the way in which family policy measures relating to the reconciliation of work and family are viewed and used by employed parents with small children. Another purpose is to consider how compatibility between family and employment is perceived by the parents, and its implications for partnership, gender balance, and parent-child relationships. The book also discusses the consequences and lessons which can be drawn from these studies for the purpose of family policy initiatives.

Published in 1997, the aim of this study is to address comparative perspectives on gender and family life in western and eastern Europe. The focus is on the way in which family policy measures relating to the reconciliation of work and family are viewed and used by employed parents with small children. Another purpose is to consider how compatibility between family and employment is perceived by the parents, and its implications for partnership, gender balance, and parent-child relationships. The book also discusses the consequences and lessons which can be drawn from these studies for the purpose of family policy initiatives.

Almost all women and men claim that gender equality within their relationships is the ideal. In practice, however, equality is not predominant within many couples and families. This book develops current debates about individualisation within families – particularly how partners understand and resolve tensions between the need for togetherness and personal autonomy, and how partners view and work with increasing gender equality.

Individualism and Families is based on a large Swedish study from two of the foremost European experts on the sociology of the family. The study looks particularly at partnering, parenting, intimacy, commitments, attitudes to finances and gender divisions of labour.