Working Class Women, Well-being and the Welfare State

ABOUT THE PROJECT

The aim of this project is to shed light on the social reality, physical and mental health, work-life balance, and social connections of different groups of women in Iceland. Additionally, the goal is to increase understanding of the experiences of low-income women with the welfare system and its potential impact on social inequality.

Research on inequality has long focused on disparities between different groups, such as men and women. However, over the past two decades, more studies have emerged indicating growing inequality within groups, and some research suggests that polarization is increasing among women in Western countries. However, little research exists on class inequality among women, both in Iceland and elsewhere.

This research is based on both quantitative and qualitative data. A survey was conducted with a random sample of women aged 25-64 from two population lists: the national registry and the membership list of the labor union Efling. The reason for sampling women from the Efling membership list was to increase the likelihood of reaching women considered to be in low-income groups and also women of foreign origin, thus better reflecting the population of women in Iceland. The survey was conducted by phone in spring 2022. The questionnaire was translated into English and Polish, and in addition to Icelandic-speaking interviewers, there were also interviewers who spoke English and Polish. The overall sample size was 3,361 women, with 1,251 responding, resulting in a response rate of 37.2%.

Additionally, individual interviews will be conducted with women considered to be in low-income groups who are active in the labor market and have children to support. The interviewees are both of Icelandic and foreign origin.

Inquiries regarding the research can be sent to konur@unak.is

click here to participate in an interview research

MEMBERS

 

COLLABORATORS

PUBLICATIONS

PRESS / MEDIA