Employment Choices for Mothers of Pre-School Children, 1998-2000

This project examined the psychological processes and demographic variables which predict the decisions women make about returning to work after they have their first child. A cohort survey of 413 women was carried out - questionnaire surveys were conducted in pregnancy and at six and 12 months post-partum. In addition, a sub-sample of 52 women took part in semi-structured interviews (not included in this dataset), where work plans, attitudes and beliefs were explored. The aims of this research were threefold: to examine the psychological processes and demographi variables behind women's decisions about work and childcare after they have their first child; to explore changes in attitudes, beliefs, norms and identity as a function of becoming a mother and beginning a new pattern of work and/or childcare; and to look at the impact of employment/childcare choices on family relationships and psychological well-being.