Gender Differences in Social Integration: The Role of Paid Work

Mirko Braack , Research Institute Social Cohesion
Daniela Grunow, Goe

Paid work is a key driver of social integration, considered more powerful than unpaid work. Yet, despite rising equality in gendered work-care divisions accompanying the Second Demographic Transition, gender inequalities in paid and unpaid work persist. Based on gendered employment patterns in Germany, women would be expected to report lower levels of social integration than men. Paradoxically, research shows that women report higher levels of social integration and more integration stability in the face of disruptive career events. This study aims to shed light on this paradox by employing a new concept of social integration to gender inequalities in paid work. We ask, to what extent respondents experience occupation-specific integration potential through the lens of own gender ideology, thus contributing to gender differences in social integration. We use two waves of the German Social Cohesion Panel (2021–2023). Social integration potential is measured using occupational classes and income, while gender ideologies are identified through latent class analysis. We estimate regression models using occupational integration potential and gender ideologies as explanatory variables and indicators of social integration as dependent variables. Preliminary results reveal gender-specific differences in occupational integration potential. Men report, despite their on average superior occupational positions, lower social support networks than women. Competing gender ideologies shape these patterns. These findings highlight that employment is both a driver of gendered social integration and a source of gender inequality. Internalized gender ideologies thus contribute to the stalling of the gender revolution, illustrating the complex interplay between work, gender, and social integration.

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 Presented in Session P7. Education, Labor Market, and Economic Issues