Family Leave: What Is vs. What Could Be
Topic:
This seminar explores family leave policies in all its forms. How does family leave policy in the U.S. compare to other countries? What does family leave look like across socioeconomic status? How should family leave policy respond to the changing workforce? Should men receive it as well? This seminar explores what is and what could be.
Readings:
The Economics of Paid and Unpaid Leave (pages 1-11, skim charts on 12-19): Link to Reading
OECD Parental Leave Systems (Read charts page 4-6, optional tables 10-19): Link to Reading
The US Needs Paid Family Leave – Ted Talk : Link to Reading
Fathers and the Flexibility Stigma (pages 295 – 299, Note: You will need to sign in with your UVA NetBadge ID) : Link to Reading
How to Make the US a Better Place for Caregivers: Link to Reading
Childcare Now Costs More than Rent - OPTIONAL: Link to Reading
Marissa Mayer's Job Is to Be CEO—Not to Make Life Easier for Working Moms - OPTIONAL: Link to Reading
New 12 week maternity policy means big cut for Navy, Marines - OPTIONAL: Link to Reading
Discussion Questions:
If you owned a business, what family leave policy would you implement (e.g., equal leave for men and women?, how long?, etc.)?
What are the norms and/or stigmas associated with taking time off for caregiving? Are they the same for men and women?
Should caregiving be “human work” as the Atlantic article suggests? How does this impact traditional gender roles?
What should be the role of government in mandating family leave policy? Should it be left to business?
