Questions and Answers
Explain how and why shifts in the economy have caused changes in the availability, character, pay, and benefits of working class jobs in the U.S. in the last few decades.
The shift to non-union manufacturing and service jobs has resulted in wages declining for many workers, with average pay for manufacturing jobs being $20-38/hour compared to $7.75-10 for low-level service jobs. There has been an increase in temporary and part-time jobs, leading to fewer benefits. The transition from 'masculinized jobs' like manufacturing to 'feminized jobs' in the service sector has also shifted job availability.
Discuss how changes in working class jobs have affected families regarding the domestic division of labor.
Both men and women must work outside the home, leading to a more equal division of labor. Children are often required to help out, leading to a more shared responsibility within the family, although many families still prefer a traditional gendered division of labor.
How have structural changes in working class jobs impacted the behaviors and identities of men and women?
Financial difficulties have led to tension and often divorce. Women entering more professional roles can make men feel emasculated. Women may feel empowered yet take on additional domestic responsibilities, working a 'double day'.
Which of the following have been identified as health impacts related to working class jobs?
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What are some challenges working class families face in terms of leisure?
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What are the difficulties in accumulating wealth for working class families?
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What is concerted cultivation as discussed in relation to middle-class parenting?
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Working-class parents have more structured family interactions compared to middle-class parents.
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Study Notes
Economic Shifts and Changes in Working-Class Jobs
- Transition from unionized manufacturing jobs to non-union service jobs has altered the landscape of employment.
- Average pay for manufacturing roles ranges from $20 to $38 per hour, contrasting with low-level service jobs earning between $7.75 and $10.
- In 2010, 76% of newly created jobs were in low to mid-wage industries, with earnings between $8.92 and $15 per hour.
- Growth of temporary and part-time positions contributes to a lack of job benefits, with co-pays for healthcare increasing by 50%.
- Major reasons for Americans lacking health insurance include high costs, job loss, and part-time employment status.
- Character of working-class employment has changed, with a decline in traditional "masculinized" manufacturing jobs and a rise in "feminized" service sector positions that depend on interpersonal skills.
- The shift has led to the prevalence of lower-skilled jobs that offer no benefits and are accompanied by lower wages.
- Employers often provide part-time roles to avoid the obligation of employee benefits.
Impact on Working-Class Families
- The domestic labor divide among family members is affected, with children required to assist in family businesses (e.g., lawn care).
- Men and women must both work outside the home, potentially equalizing the workload at home, though working-class families often prefer traditional gender roles over egalitarian arrangements.
- Financial strain can result in marital tension and increased divorce rates.
- Men's self-esteem may suffer if they feel demasculinized due to women entering higher-paying or masculine roles, causing potential conflict.
- Women often perform a "double day," working full-time outside but also managing domestic tasks, leading to potential empowerment through their workforce participation.
- Leisure time is significantly reduced as both parents juggle multiple jobs, resulting in scarce financial resources for recreational activities.
- Health concerns arise as physically demanding jobs contribute to stress and various health issues among working-class individuals, with a higher likelihood of being uninsured.
- Poor mental health is prevalent due to emotional stress; lack of funds hinders access to nutritious food and healthcare.
Educational and Economic Opportunities
- Accumulating wealth is challenging for working-class families; emergencies can deplete savings and lead to debt.
- The prohibitive costs of education further restrict opportunities for upward mobility.
- Working-class children often attend underfunded schools with inadequate resources, limiting their potential for advancement.
- Lareau's research indicates significant differences in upbringing based on class: middle-class parents use "concerted cultivation" to enhance children’s skills through organized activities, while working-class parents foster a natural growth approach, offering basic conditions without planned enrichment.
- Middle-class children gain cumulative advantages that working-class children, typically lacking in entitlement and resources, do not experience.
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Description
This quiz explores the shifts in the economy and how they have affected working class jobs in the U.S. over recent decades. Topics include changes in job availability, wages, and benefits associated with non-union manufacturing and service sectors.
