Colloquium: Separate Housework Spheres

ABSTRACT: Using novel time-use data from Germany before and after reunification, we document two key findings. First, spouses working full-time show similar housework gaps, whether the work is voluntary or mandated, as in the GDR. Second, men’s housework participation remains unchanged regardless of their spouse’s labour supply. This pattern is explained by the presence of two household goods and specialization due to socially learned gender-specific comparative advantages, integrating efficiency-and norm-based theories. These ”separate housework spheres” along routine/female vs. non-routine/male housework are confirmed empirically for Germany, over time, and internationally, explaining child penalties, occupational segregation, and the ”shecession” following COVID-19.