Fewer mothers with young children in the workforce, report finds

Fewer mothers with young children in the workforce, report finds

The share of working mothers between the ages of 25-44 has dropped 3% so far this year, according to a new report from the University of Kansas. Professor Misty Heggeness, who analyzed the data and is the author of the upcoming book, “Swifty-Nomics: How Women Mastermind and Redefine our Economy,” joins the “CBS Evening News” to discuss the report.

Truth Analysis

Factual Accuracy
4/5
Bias Level
3/5

Analysis Summary:

The article appears mostly accurate, reporting a decrease in workforce participation among mothers aged 25-44. The claim is supported by the identified trend in related research, although the specific 3% drop requires further verification from the University of Kansas report. The bias is moderate, stemming from the selection of the topic and potentially the framing of the issue as a problem.

Detailed Analysis:

  • Claim: The share of working mothers between the ages of 25-44 has dropped 3% so far this year.
  • Verification Source #1: This source discusses the impact of paid family leave on women's workforce participation, suggesting policies can reduce women leaving the workforce.
  • Verification Source #2: This source indicates that the child care crisis is keeping women out of the workforce, and mothers who cannot find child care are less likely to be employed.
  • Verification Source #3: This source discusses the barriers women face in the workplace and how companies are addressing diversity and inclusion.
  • Verification Source #4: This source finds that child care deserts are associated with fewer mothers in the workforce.
  • Assessment: The claim is plausible and aligns with the general trend discussed in the provided sources, which highlight factors like childcare availability and family leave policies affecting women's workforce participation. However, the specific 3% figure is unverified by the provided sources and relies on the accuracy of the University of Kansas report mentioned in the article.

Supporting Evidence/Contradictions:

  • Source 2: 'Mothers who do not find child care are less likely to be employed.'
  • Source 4: 'CAP finds that child care deserts are associated with fewer mothers in the workforce.'