INTERNEWSTIMES.COM – While technology promises efficiency and convenience, a new study reveals a concerning trend: women are disproportionately burdened by the digital demands of family life. This “digital overload” adds to women’s already heavy mental workload, exacerbating the gender gap in household responsibilities.
A cross-national study, analyzing data from over 6,600 parents across 29 countries, found that women, particularly mothers, are more likely to engage in digital communication for both work and family. This “double burden” is amplified for women working from home. The study reveals that women are 1.6 times more likely than men to juggle high digital communication demands in both work and home environments.
This translates to a reality where mothers often become the de facto managers of family technology, handling everything from school communication to organizing playdates. This digital burden often goes unnoticed, as it’s woven into the fabric of daily life. Yet, it contributes to a sense of constant pressure and mental fatigue.
The study highlights the need for a more equitable approach to technology use within families. Recognizing and addressing the digital burden on women is crucial for achieving a more balanced and sustainable family life in the digital age. (Red)
