Gender Dynamics in Remote Work: A Study of Work-Life Balance During the Pandemic

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly altered the nature of work. It has forced millions to transition to remote work environments, which brought new challenges to work-life balance. This study explores the gendered dynamics of work-life balance during the pandemic, with a focus on how men and women experienced and navigated the dual demands of professional and domestic responsibilities. This research paper uses mixed method approach. This benefits from qualitative insights into personal experiences and quantitative data for generalization. This paper uses mixed-method Semi-structured interviews. It has 20-30 participants (balanced gender representation) selected through purposive sampling. It's done to gain in-depth understanding of individual experiences and perceptions regarding work-life balance. This paper uses surveys using Likert scale questions. It has 300 participants from diverse professional backgrounds, recruited via stratified random sampling. It's to measure work-life balance metrics and identify statistical patterns. The paper uses thematic analysis to identify recurring themes and gendered patterns. The paper has statistical analysis using SPSS to compare metrics across genders and identify significant trends. This study seeks to illuminate the gendered complexities of remote work during the pandemic, offering actionable insights for creating equitable work environments. Its mixed-method approach ensures a nuanced understanding of this critical issue. The findings highlight the need for gender-sensitive remote work policies that recognize the unique challenges aced by both men and women. The research contributes to ongoing discussions on gender equality in the workplace and provides recommendations for creating a more equitable work environment that supports work-life balance for all employees.