Abstract
Purpose - In the context of the persistent low fertility that contributes to an ageing society, what might be the shifting roles of state and family in caring for children?Design/methodology/approach - This paper aims to address this research question by drawing on the conceptual framework of "social care" (Daly and Lewis, 2000), and on data collected through a qualitative study concerning the state’s population policies aimed at encouraging childbearing among citizens in Singapore. Findings - Three themes from the interview data relate to the various dimensions of care: first, in terms of care-as-responsibility, interviewees consider childbearing a long-term commitment. In this context, they perceive the current Baby Bonus scheme only as a short-term benefit, having limited effects. Second, regarding care-as-costs, interviewees pointed out that some important social services are not universally affordable. In particular, they expressed a need for more state funding to put education and healthcare within the reach of the general public. Third, in terms of care-as-labour, care-giving for young children by family members continues to be seen as ideal. However, there is a gap between such an ideal and the reality. Research limitations/implications - These findings suggest a greater financial and regulatory role for the state in childcare provision is increasingly vital. Practical implications - As it stands, there is a mismatch of people's expectations and available policy initiatives, and this mismatch possibly undermines the success of the government’s policy of encouraging childbearing.Originality/value - This research complements existing studies based on content analysis of policy or statistical analysis of survey data.
Purpose - In the context of the persistent low fertility that contributes to an ageing society, what might be the shifting roles of state and family in caring for children?Design/methodology/approach - This paper aims to address this research question by drawing on the conceptual framework of "social care" (Daly and Lewis, 2000), and on data collected through a qualitative study concerning the state’s population policies aimed at encouraging childbearing among citizens in Singapore. Findings - Three themes from the interview data relate to the various dimensions of care: first, in terms of care-as-responsibility, interviewees consider childbearing a long-term commitment. In this context, they perceive the current Baby Bonus scheme only as a short-term benefit, having limited effects. Second, regarding care-as-costs, interviewees pointed out that some important social services are not universally affordable. In particular, they expressed a need for more state funding to put education and healthcare within the reach of the general public. Third, in terms of care-as-labour, care-giving for young children by family members continues to be seen as ideal. However, there is a gap between such an ideal and the reality. Research limitations/implications - These findings suggest a greater financial and regulatory role for the state in childcare provision is increasingly vital. Practical implications - As it stands, there is a mismatch of people's expectations and available policy initiatives, and this mismatch possibly undermines the success of the government’s policy of encouraging childbearing.Originality/value - This research complements existing studies based on content analysis of policy or statistical analysis of survey data.