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Gender differences in Norwegian children's work at home

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Childhood: A journal of global child research

Published online on

Abstract

The division of labour between men and women has been thoroughly discussed in Norway over the last decades, in research as well as in political and public debate. In contrast, there has been little recognition of children’s involvement in work, and differences between girls’ and boys’ work is seldom addressed. This article looks at the extent of children’s work at home, how work is distributed among girls and boys, and whether gender variations correlate with parents’ socialization goals, work statuses and level of education. The findings show that there are small but significant differences between girls’ and boys’ involvement in work at home. It is also found that there is a significant gender bias in how children perceive expectations of work and participation at home. There is, however, little evidence to support that gender differences derive from gendered differences in parents’ socialization goals (values) or as gendered role models (work status and educational level). The authors argue that the variations are more likely to derive from a generalized socially constructed image of what mothers and fathers do. This article contributes to the ongoing discussion about the reproduction of gender roles and gendered practices in a society characterized by a strong orientation towards gender equality.