Critique of U.S. Work/Family Programs and Policies

This article analyzes the work/family programs and policies of the United States. Work/family programs are those that provide benefits to working people in order to facilitate their dual roles as family members and employees. They include family and medical leaves, flexible work arrangements, assistance with child and elder care, and counseling in conjunction with Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs). This article discusses the historical background of the need for work/family benefits such as the changing composition of the U.S. labor force. It describes the piecemeal programs and policies designed by government and employers, examines their implications and limitations for workers, employers and society, and discusses the impact of globalization on work and family issues. It demonstrates the woefully inadequate existing employer-based work/family programs and policies, suggesting that government rather than employers should be responsible for the provision of work/family benefits. It concludes by proposing a government-based uniform national policy. A discussion of the roles of government, employers, unions, and social workers forms part of the political feasibility exploration of achieving a socially just work/family policy.