What is Second Shift

The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted women's lives. Many already juggled two full-time jobs, that of employee and that of primary homemaker and caregiver; the pandemic exacerbated these challenges. Unprecedented numbers left paid employment altogether, some by choice, some by necessity, and others by jobs that disappeared. Disruptions may have lasting consequences for gender equality in the workplace. The pandemic exacerbated existing barriers in the workplace, augmented by the intersection of gender and race/ethnicity that contributes to challenges women of color and immigrant and migrant women face. The chapter covers how the pandemic has exacerbated barriers and challenges, how it affected women's labor force participation and work and home lives, and the economic and social consequences. The chapter also covers new challenges and opportunities and current and emerging research and policies. The chapter concludes with consideration of implications for supports and policy and recommendations for further research.