“HAVING IT ALL”: A COMPARISON OF WOMEN’S ATTITUDES TOWARDS BALANCING PROFESSIONAL AND FAMILY LIFE IN THE UNITED STATES AND FRANCE

Abstract

This thesis seeks to examine how certain cultural and political practices affect the simultaneous participation of women in the labor force and family life. Gains made from the feminist movement have allowed women more opportunities than ever to be active members of society, both politically and professionally. With this change, women must learn how to integrate these modern opportunities with the traditional roles of wife and mother. To better understand women’s attitudes regarding work-life balance, this thesis will compare the trends of two major powers: the United States and!France. This analysis will utilize the drastically different practices of both nations to identify if certain cultural practices better support women in their plight to “have it all”–a fulfilling personal and professional life. To do so, this thesis will first use statistical analysis of women’s census data in the U.S. and France to understand underlying attitudes of female citizens. Next, it will explore family benefits offered in each nation and how they affect the personal and professional lives of women. Finally, it will include a comparative analysis of major national trends, making a point to identify important differences and their effects alongside cross-cultural commonalities between the United States and France.