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Computer Use and Digital Frustration in German Workplaces: Is There a Gendered Part-Time Gap?

Author

Listed:
  • Yvonne Lott

    (Hans-Böckler Foundation, Germany)

  • Andreas Hövermann

    (Hans-Böckler Foundation, Germany)

Abstract

The digital transformation may disproportionately disadvantage female part-time workers, as they are affected by the flexibility stigma and career penalties. In this article, we ask: Is there a gendered part-time gap in work-related computer use and digital frustration in Germany? Latent class analysis and multivariate analysis, based on data from Wave 12 (2019/20) of the German National Educational Panel Study (NEPS) Starting Cohort 6 – Adults, showed that women – and part-time working women in particular – were less likely than men to be classified as ‘advanced users’. Furthermore, part-time working women felt least well prepared for using networked digital technologies at work and were thus more at risk of experiencing digital frustration. These findings suggest that the triadic association between technology, power and masculinity postulated by feminist technology theory should be extended to include full-time work.

Suggested Citation

  • Yvonne Lott & Andreas Hövermann, 2025. "Computer Use and Digital Frustration in German Workplaces: Is There a Gendered Part-Time Gap?," Work, Employment & Society, British Sociological Association, vol. 39(6), pages 1440-1462, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:woemps:v:39:y:2025:i:6:p:1440-1462
    DOI: 10.1177/09500170251351265
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    References listed on IDEAS

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