ABSTRACT
The aim of this chapter is to describe gender inequalities in the couple and to analyse their link with changes in family structures, the position of women in the labour market and family policy in Spain. The central idea is that, despite the protection granted by the parental leave system, motherhood penalises working women. Our study is carried out in an institutional context especially difficult for the work-life balance, and the economic crisis also entails more insecurity and precariousness for workers. The analysis is based on the Spanish Labour Force Survey and the Muestra Continua de Vidas Laborales, waves 2005–2012.
