Housework and lesbian couples in Japan: Division, negotiation and interpretation

SynopsisInformed by research on the division of housework for (heterosexual) couples, especially those conducted in Japan, this study explores various aspects of the housework division of lesbian couples in Japan, using information from face-to-face interviews with 12 couples. The analysis shows variation, flexibility and prominence of negotiations in housework division among the couples. The women saw time availability, as well as preference for, sensitivity about and ability to undertake specific tasks as the factors affecting the division. The lack of reference to income difference in the women's interpretation of their housework division, their view of housework and housewifery, and the importance of choice and freedom in doing or not doing housework are also explored in the article. Finally, the connection between the value placed on housework on the one hand, and the significance of being a woman and being in a relationship with a woman on the other, is discussed.