COVID-19 and the centrality of care: pandemic-induced shifts in the gendered organisation of unpaid domestic and care within heterosexual households in Scotland

Abstract

This chapter explores how the COVID-19 pandemic reshaped the gendered organisation of unpaid domestic and care work within Scottish households. Drawing on qualitative interviews with 15 heterosexual couples, it investigates how containment measures intensified unpaid care responsibilities, disproportionately affecting women, although some men increased their involvement. While large-scale transformations were limited, the study identifies ‘micro-shifts’ in household arrangements, shaped by employment (key worker) status, access to flexible working arrangements and social norms. The findings reveal persistent gendered inequalities but also increased recognition of the value of care and a collective desire for more equitable and sustainable household arrangements.