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From: www.itworld.com
Burdens of Gender II
April 4, 2001 —
I think women are looking for jobs to be redesigned to fit their preferences. Personally, I establish what balance I can by getting up and leaving the office when I've decided I've met my commitment. It has, I believe, cost me movement into management. I'm doing well and doing something I like, but I do not regard it as balanced. My life is heavily oriented toward bringing home a solid paycheck.
In my mind, balance, for parents at least, comes in equitable division of labor. One party is responsible for obtaining resources (income) and one for managing house and child care. Which role they choose is up to them, but re-engineering work life isn't the answer. Individuals need to put reasonable limits on their commitment to their jobs; they cannot expect employers to do it. Employers will, after all, take all you offer and then some, regardless of your gender.
Frank Hujber
Mercerville, N.J.
Computerworld