Author Description

This document contains two papers on connections between work and health and policy options for improving the health of working families. "Foreword" (James A. Auerbach) places the two papers in the context of recent research on the connections between work, family, and health. Chapter 1's overview addresses the changing nature of work, the new economy, and recent demographic trends. Chapter 2: The Impact of Work on Employees and Family Health examines the health effects of job security, income, work organization, health and pension benefits, work schedules, workplace stress, occupational health, socioeconomic status across the life course, and family and sick leave. Chapter 3: Policy Options outlines these three strategies: (1) focus on the individual and the job; (2) encourage the business sector to adopt supportive policies; and (3) develop and expand government policy. "Further Implications for Policy" (James A. Auerbach) weighs the effectiveness of work-life programs, family medical leave and paid leave, unemployment insurance, and childcare and elder care in improving the balance between work, family, and health. He concludes by urging policymakers to adopt policies based on the following principles: work redesign; paid leave and family care; reduced hours and flexibility; women in leadership positions, worker voice, community empowerment; and work-family councils. (MN).