ABSTRACT
A principal objection to preference theory is that the lifestyle preference groups cannot be identified by other researchers in national surveys. Two nationally representative surveys of Britain and Spain allow to draw comparisons between the two countries, as well as making comparisons between groups within each country. The research design thus permits conclusions at the macro-level, on between-country differences, and at the micro-level, on differences between individuals within countries. The distinction between agency and structure may be fading anyway in the long term due to the globalization of labour markets and high volumes of international migration. There are substantial differences between the British and Spanish labour markets, particularly as regards women's opportunities. Sex differences only emerge in work centrality, because the vast majority of men regard themselves as primary earners throughout adult life, while the vast majority of women regard themselves as secondary earners as soon as they get married.
