RECONSTRUCTING CAREERS, SHIFTING REALITIES: UNDERSTANDING THE DIFFICULTIES FACING TRAILING SPOUSES IN HIGHER EDUCATION

Authors

  • Erin Careless
  • Robert Mizzi

Abstract

Faculty members in higher education who move to new cities or provinces often bring their families with them, and this can have both a positive and negative effect on the retention and job satisfaction of faculty. Educational policy makers can play a role in supporting faculty by supporting their trailing spouses, through policies informing careers, skills, and community engagement. This paper explores existing literature focusing on academic trailing spouses, conducts a content analysis of three Canadian universities that relates to support for trailing spouses, and suggests some recommendations. We pay particular attention to the use of inclusive language in these policies, as the changing nature of family systems requires further consideration of diverse needs and experiences. 

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Published

2017-07-25

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Section

Articles