Child care social representations from a gender perspective. Main results of the National Survey on Care Social Representations

Abstract

Social representations of child care from a gender perspective: Main results of the National Survey on Social Care Representations This article aims to present and discuss research results on social representations of child care. Using a national survey, we examine desirable child care situations, the perceived obligations of parents, and the possible link between paid work and care. In addition, the article discusses the contributions of the survey results to public policy on care in Uruguay. The results show the powerful presence of “familism” in representations. The most desirable situation in early childhood is care provided at home, especially by family members. We found that the gender mandate of caregiving has a strong influence on female identity, which transcends women’s social positions. Women are more likely than men to leave their jobs or seek flexible working arrangements to provide child care.