Gender Differentials in Work and Family Representations: Cross-Cultural Analysis

Using a demographic approach, this paper presents research-based evidence to explain the dimensions and differentials associated with the representation of family, gender, and work in varying socio-cultural contexts. This paper is based on gender socialization theory in which educational system, particularly school education resources, is recognized as the first official agent of and the most powerful engine of socialization process. The fields of study are two countries which are substantially varying in terms of demographic characteristics and socio-cultural backgrounds: Iran and New Zealand. This cross-cultural analysis provides the opportunity to explain whether and to what extent the representations of family, work and gender through the educational system are associated with varying socio-demographic backgrounds. Using the method of content analysis, this paper highlights the main patterns and differentials associated with the representation of family, gender and work characteristics through school education resources of these two varying socio-demographic settings.