Family, work, care and welfare policies in the Southern European countries: between tradition and transformation

The couple is an area of mediation between the fundamental differences of the human being. The family relationship which emanates from the couple therefore bears in itself its own dramatic character, as the task of mediation is inherently difficult and potentially conflicting. This chapter will focus on the gendered relationship, thoroughly examining the assumptions and transformations of gender identity in relation to paid work, housework and care, as well as of changing gender roles. The world of work has been and continues to be subject to a profound change in structure and also a change in culture and values, thus requiring us to rethink the role and meaning of work vis-à-vis other aspects of our existence. From a morphogenetic perspective, the influence between the two spheres of family and work and the varying levels of reality are of a reciprocal nature. Specifically, our chapter will be articulated as follows: first we will analyze occupational rates, on the basis of gender and throughout the various phases of a person's life cycle. Then we will examine the differences in doing housework and the number of hours spent weekly on housework by men and women across Europe. Finally, we will take into consideration the dominating trends in social policy in Southern Europe relating to care, examining specifically the prevailing measures to foster gender flexibility, the identity of the caregiver, and existing labor models.