Gender Relations and Division of Labour: Changing Masculinities in Concepción, Chile

Abstract

This article deals with the study of gender relations, family arrangements and constructions of masculinity in the context of increasing female participation in the labour market. The current dynamics of families in middle sectors of the urban conception, linked to the organization of domestic work and ways of exercising parentality are presented. The persistent limitations experienced by women to perform in the productive sphere lead to the gradual questioning of the roles occupied by men in the reproductive sphere. This requires the coordination of public policies that promote the reconciliation of work and family life of mothers and fathers. This qualitative research uses semi-structured interviews and focus groups with parents with children aged 0-14. The heterogeneity of existing domestic arrangements is linked to men who not only assume reproductive tasks, but also represent significant ruptures in gender roles.