Abstract
The declining birth rate in South Korea is concerning and linked to stress in the work–family balance, which is known to affect family planning. Therefore, providing proper support to double-earner couples might help improve the fertility rate. Work–family balance refers to the ability of individuals to perform their roles at work and home with equal involvement. This study identifies two aspects: gains and strains. Latent profile analysis is employed to create a typology that can account for the diversity in work–family balance. This approach is person-centered rather than variable-centered, and it identifies clusters of individuals that differ qualitatively, thereby examining the strains and gains experienced by double-earner couples. We classify the types of work–family balance and identify the attributes of each profile. The findings showed that men were more likely to belong to the high-gain class when they had a temporary position, multiple children, good health, low depression, higher life satisfaction levels, and strong social support. Women were more likely to belong to the high-gain class when they experienced high happiness levels and strong social support. Based on these profiles, we provide recommendations to enhance work–family balance, thereby contributing to strategies to overcome low birth rates.
Highlights
In 2018, the average total fertility rate of 37 OECD member countries was 1.63, of which South Korea had a birth rate of less than 1 (0.98) [1]
It is not likely that the low birth rate will rebound, it is imperative to slow down the rapid population change through a support policy for low birth rate and an aging society and taking measures to cope with the changes in population structure in a stable manner
Who responded to questions about work–family balance
Summary
In 2018, the average total fertility rate of 37 OECD member countries was 1.63, of which South Korea had a birth rate of less than 1 (0.98) [1]. In 2019, Korea’s total fertility rate was 0.918, which is a record low in history [2]. Excluding regions with wars or famines, such a naturally low birth rate (that is, below 1.0) has occurred only in South Korea. In 2020, a sharp population decline became a reality when the number of newborn babies was 20,000 fewer than the number of deaths. The decrease in total fertility rate is occurring at a concerning rate and far more rapidly than was forecasted. It is not likely that the low birth rate will rebound, it is imperative to slow down the rapid population change through a support policy for low birth rate and an aging society and taking measures to cope with the changes in population structure in a stable manner
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