Childcare Policy in Europe

Marchbank uses non-decision making theory in a novel way to explore childcare policy. Non-decision making theory argues that subtle and covert uses of power to maintain the status quo are part of the policy process and has been part of management theory for some time. However, the author argues, the texts on which current thinking is based were written in the 70s and 80s and the theory has never before been applied to women's issues. Offering an adapted definition of the theory and applying it to existing policy, The Politics of Childcare is unique in both perspective and focusThe book focuses on childcare policies and how they are based on the stereotypical allocation of childcare to the female gender role. In doing this, the book examines theories of power, showing how non-decision making is as much a tool of power as decision-making. Divided into three parts the book links theories of non-decision making to gender roles, provides an historical overview of childcare provision in the UK and a comparison with EU policies, and, finally, explains the failure of childcare policy, discussing strategies open to women to influence the policy process.Marchbank, Jennifer is the author of 'Childcare Policy in Europe', published 2000 under ISBN 9781857282870 and ISBN 1857282876.