Browsing by Author "Saares, Anni"

In the 21st century Japan has been experiencing massive demographic changes. The country’s birth rate is low, and the population is steadily aging. Women are increasingly needed in the labour force in order for Japan to prosper despite these changes. However, for a long time there has been different type of gender-based employment and hiring practices, which have affected women’s employment and careers in Japan. Due to these practices and Japanese work culture, many women end their careers when they get married or have their first child. Additionally, many women are working part-time. The impact of these gendered divisions of labor can be noted in gender pay gaps and promotion practices. The purpose of this study is to examine whether the employment and hiring practices are changing in Japan and how Japanese work culture and women’s role in it have changed in the last few decades. I interviewed three sets of mothers and daughters about their career dreams and experiences in the Japanese labor market. I also examined the influence of one’s mother on individual’s career decisions. In the theory segment, I review Pierre Bourdieu’s theory of cultural capital which examines how individuals reproduce, embody and aggregate knowledge in the social field. In this study Bourdieu’s theory works as an example of how one’s family and social status can affect their education, employment, and future success. The findings of this study are that Japanese women are often affected by their mothers, family dynamics, and social environment when it comes to employment plans and dreams. Both the mothers and the daughters think that the employment opportunities for Japanese women have increased in recent years and that many companies in Japan seem to be changing their culture and habits to achieve better gender equality. However, there is requirement for more varied sets of work-related role models for women to feel more secure and confident in various areas of labor and work positions. Additionally, flexibility from employers, as well as partnership and participation of husband in child rearing and housework, is required for mothers to be able to continue working.