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Childbearing in the Knowledge-Based Society: Job-Related Learning Demands and the Transition to Parenthood in Germany

Author

Listed:
  • Chen Luo

    (University of Warsaw, LabFam - Interdisciplinary Centre for Labour Market and Family Dynamics)

  • Ewa Jarosz

    (University of Warsaw, LabFam - Interdisciplinary Centre for Labour Market and Family Dynamics)

  • Anna Matysiak

    (University of Warsaw, LabFam - Interdisciplinary Centre for Labour Market and Family Dynamics; Cracow University of Economics)

Abstract

This study investigates the relationship between learning demands at work and the transition to parenthood in Germany. As a consequence of technological progress and intensifying global competition, workplace learning is no longer an optional path to career advancement but has become an essential job demand. Consequently, it absorbs time and energy that could otherwise be devoted to family formation, prompting individuals to postpone childbearing or have fewer children. Yet, the fertility implications of this structural change have not been systematically examined. This study addresses this gap by analysing how job-related high learning demands relate to the transition to the first birth. The results indicate that individuals in jobs with high learning demands, both men and women, tend to delay the transition to the first birth. However, these delays do not appear to preclude them from becoming parents later, suggesting a postponement rather than a withdrawal from parenthood.

Suggested Citation

  • Chen Luo & Ewa Jarosz & Anna Matysiak, 2025. "Childbearing in the Knowledge-Based Society: Job-Related Learning Demands and the Transition to Parenthood in Germany," Working Papers 2025-29, Faculty of Economic Sciences, University of Warsaw.
    • Handle: RePEc:war:wpaper:2025-29
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Keywords

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    JEL classification:

    • J13 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demographic Economics - - - Fertility; Family Planning; Child Care; Children; Youth
    • J16 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demographic Economics - - - Economics of Gender; Non-labor Discrimination
    • J22 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demand and Supply of Labor - - - Time Allocation and Labor Supply
    • J24 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demand and Supply of Labor - - - Human Capital; Skills; Occupational Choice; Labor Productivity

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