Overview

Abstract (English)

This study examines the association between underemployment and health, with a focus on how this relationship is moderated by social location (gender, age and race). The Labour Utilisation Framework is used to identify three types of underemployment (hours, earnings and skills) and test how exposure to them affects general and functional health. Drawing on data from a Canadian longitudinal labour market survey we find that certain groups have a higher prevalence of exposure to underemployment, specifically visible minorities and younger individuals. Results from regression analyses indicate that the negative health impact of underemploymentis also unevenly distributed across different social locations. In some cases, age and gender significantly elevated the health risk posed by underemployment. In light of these findings and other documented trends in the rise of precarious forms of employment, we suggest that further research is needed to fully comprehend the relationships between underemployment, social location and health.

Abstract (French)

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