EQUALITY WITHOUT LIMITS? WOMEN'S WORK IN THE SOCIALIST SOCIETY OF THE GERMAN DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC

Abstract

This paper discusses the transformation as well as the reproduction of conventional role sets of women in the family and in the larger society, particularly at work. The analysis is based on a representative sample of families belonging to different social classes and strata. The empirical research strategy was to compare socio-economic status and gender, and thereby to identify typical patterns according to the criteria `socially homogeneous' (spouses with the same SES) and `socially heterogeneous' (spouses with different SES). Inequalities of employed women, especially regarding income distribution and power relations, also persist in a socialist society though the participation of the female workforce is indispensable. They are closely linked with an unequal division of household tasks. In conclusion, social policy concepts are discussed to empower women at work, with special emphasis on the use of their acquired high level of general and vocational knowledge and skills (`qualifications'), and to empower men, particularly those belonging to the working class, to change conventional patterns at home.