Syntax for Creating a Comparative Dataset on Parents' Time Use in Four Countries, 2000-2003

This syntax harmonizes four nationally representative time-use datasets from the United States (2003), the United Kingdom (2000-2001), Germany (2001-2002) and Norway (2001). The dataset was created to examine parental time with children. It seeks to remedy several limitations of the Multinational Time Use Study (MTUS) datasets, circa 2006, for studying parents' time with children. Specifically, it improves upon data available by utilizing information about who else was present when each activity took place, using more detailed time-use codes, and retaining a wider variety of background variables. The sample specified in the syntax is restricted to partnered respondents (married or cohabiting) who reside with children aged 14 years or under. Households with children aged 15 years and over and households containing other adults are not included to ensure comparability in the coding of who the respondent was with during each activity. Researchers wishing to use other inclusion criteria can simply alter the syntax provided. To construct the dataset researchers must obtain the original, publicly-available data from each country directly (described in the User Guide) and then run the syntax available through the ICPSR Web site. Each dataset contains many more variables than we attempted or were able to harmonize. Documentation for each original dataset should be consulted for the availability of additional variables.