Are parental leaves considered as work interruptions by survey respondents? A methodological note

Overview

Abstract (English)

Parental leaves and family-related work interruptions are linked to a variety of issues, such as children’s well-being and development, women’s work trajectories and social inequality. Yet, the measurement of periods of absence from the labour market might be imprecise, especially in retrospective surveys that are often used to evaluate the long-term consequences of such interruptions. To evaluate the quality of the collected information, we examine whether respondents who reported taking a parental leave for at least six months also mentioned a corresponding work interruption, using the 2008 Living in Canada Survey (LCS) – Pilot. Our analysis shows that nearly half of respondents failed to do so. We investigate the sources of the discrepancy and suggest possible avenues of change for future surveys.

Abstract (French)

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