How Do Inequalities in the Distribution of Housework Influence the Quality of Family Relations?

There is growing evidence showing that new couples in Spain are more likely to adopt egalitarian arrangements concerning the distribution of domestic tasks and care responsibilities. In this paper we review existing evidence and assess the extent to which such arrangements have a positive effect on the quality of their relationships. Our work draws on a survey conducted with 2500 young Spanish individuals (under the age 40) living with a partner, either in a married or cohabiting relationship. We examine different dimensions of the quality of the relationship: perceptions of fairness in the distribution of tasks, broad satisfaction with the relationship, intensity of conflict, conflict management, love towards his/her partner, assessments about the stability of the relationship. Survey indicators enable us to control potential confounding factors.