Explaining Changes in Mothers' Job Satisfaction Following Childbirth

Abstract

This study examines the determinants of changes in job satisfaction for childbearing women who return to their jobs following childbirth. By using longitudinal data, this research is able to determine the direction and causes of changes in satisfaction that accompany the return to work. We find first that declines in job satisfaction routinely accompany the birth of a child. However, several family and workplace characteristics help to alleviate the decline in job satisfaction. In addition, we find that the determinants of job satisfaction appear to change following childbirth, which will be key in future research examining this issue.