Women's work and infant care in the Philippines

Doan, R.M.; Popkin, B.M.

Social Science and Medicine 36(3): 297-304

1993


ISSN/ISBN: 0277-9536
PMID: 8426973
DOI: 10.1016/0277-9536(93)90013-t
Document Number: 363289
Using data from a survey of 3000 Filipino infants and mothers, we analyze the implications of having more than one preschooler on several work outcomes, as well as the effect of availability of substitute care givers. The work outcomes of interest are those thought to be least compatible with infant care: work outside the home, wage work remunerated on a time basis, and long working hours. Our findings suggest that having multiple preschoolers only makes a difference for mothers whose household income is below the median: it increases their likelihood of working outside the home. Grandmothers and paid helpers consistently increase the likelihood of the various work outcomes and increase hours worked. Our findings suggest that urban residence, an indicator of work opportunity structure, increases the likelihood of wage-time work and is associated with longer working hours.

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Women's work and infant care in the Philippines