INVISIBLE WORK AND GENDER INEQUALITY: THE REALITY OF THE FEMALE DOUBLE WORKDAY

Abstract

The burden faced by women, resulting from the reconciliation between paid work and domestic responsibilities, constitutes a structural issue that perpetuates and intensifies gender inequalities. This reality significantly affects women's physical and mental health, compromises their professional development, and reduces their quality of life. This study aims to examine the impacts of this double journey, addressing its consequences in the physical, psychological and occupational spheres, in addition to reflecting on public policies and private actions aimed at promoting gender equality. The methodological approach adopted is based on a qualitative bibliographic review, based on academic articles, labor regulations and documents issued by national and international institutions. The findings reveal that, even in the face of legal achievements – such as the right to maternity leave and protection against discriminatory practices – the unequal distribution of domestic tasks remains a challenge, causing an overload for women and restricting their possibilities of ascension in the labor market.