Reconciling work-family balance among Moroccan immigrant women in Spain: Socioeducational aspects

Abstract

In Spain, Moroccan immigrant women constitute one of the largest and most important migrant groups. They face a series of obstacles when trying to balance family and work. This research aims to discover the perceptions of economically active and inactive Moroccan immigrant women concerning work-family and gender balance, childcare in the home, and the use of childcare and early education centres in Spain. A quantitative methodology was employed. A questionnaire was administered to a sample of 388 Moroccan immigrant women in Spain. SPSS v. 27 was used for descriptive and inferential statistics. Most of employed respondents are dissatisfied with their work-life balance. Mothers (employed and non-employed) are mainly responsible for the care of their children. Non-believers and those of a higher socio-economic status are more in favour of gender equality in the family and workplace. Childcare support policies are needed that guarantee appropriate personal, family, work, and gender balance.