An index tracking fatigue among Taiwan’s working mothers has hit a four year high. That’s according to a survey released on Thursday by the recruitment and human resources site Yes123.
Yes123 included 1,237 responses from working mothers for the survey which was published ahead of Mother’s Day. The results showed as many as 93% of working mothers felt that they could not effectively balance both family life and a career. The survey also shows respondents worked an average of 10 hours per day, with 24% reporting working more than 12 hours. The main reasons given for fatigue are low pay, long periods without a raise, and a lack of rest. Many report still needing to take care of household chores after work.
The industries showing the highest levels of exhaustion among respondents are in the public relations, advertising, food and beverage, travel, and medical industries.
Yes123 spokesman Yang Tsung-pin (楊宗斌) said that in addition to childcare and financial responsibilities, working mothers are also often expected to care for their elders. Working mothers who report taking time off of work to raise children do so for an average period of 4.5 years. Nearly 38% report that their salaries upon returning to the workforce are lower than when they left.
The survey reported that the top three most anticipated Mother's Day gifts this year are cash (hongbao), domestic travel, and family photos, while top wishes for the holiday are for family health, obedient children, and more rest and relaxation.