Overview

This book draws on international data from 30 European countries and studies conducted in Australia, the US and India, to offer a unique examination of flexible working and to challenge the common belief that it leads to a better quality of life, particularly in relation to different genders. Does flexible working really provide a better work-life balance? Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, flexible working has become the norm for many workers. This volume offers an original examination of flexible working using data from 30 European countries and drawing on studies conducted in Australia, the US and India. Rather than providing a better work-life balance, the book reveals how flexible working can lead to exploitation, which manifests differently for women and men i.e. more care responsibilities or increased working hours. Taking a critical stance, this book investigates the potential risks and benefits of flexible working and provides crucial policy recommendations for overcoming the negative consequences.

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9781447354772

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Reviews

Flexible work is a priority for many workers and yet remains a puzzle to many employers. This book provides much-needed clarity about the critical role schedule control will play in creating equitable work systems and cultures. Brigid Schulte, New America Be careful what you wish for with regard to flexible work. Chung's savvy analysis and fresh perspective explains the reasons that flexible work so often creates more work. Erin L. Kelly, Massachusetts Institute of Technology

... three decades after the publications of The Second Shift (1989) by Hochschild and The Overworked American (1992) by Schor, Chung's book provides a necessary update on the state of work and leisure, particularly in light of the social changes wrought by the global pandemic. Social Forces ... In addition to its scholarly qualities, The Flexibility Paradox is of great value to society at large because of the social project it represents. Etnofoor ...a welcome and timely contribution to the disciplines of sociology, social policy, and management studies. Readers interested in gender inequalities in the interface between work and family life would find this book interesting and informative... an excellent primer for anyone researching or studying flexible working. Gender, Work and Organization

Author Information

Heejung Chung is Professor of Work and Employment in King's Business School at King's College London.

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