Married Women’s Career Patterns

Determinants of Job Separation and Career Transitions in Japan

Abstract

This study examines the factors influencing the career trajectories of married women. The analysis reveals that women in their 30s exhibit a high turnover rate, while those in their 40s and beyond ― after fulfilling family responsibilities such as childbirth and child-rearing ― tend to remain with their previous employers in non-regular positions. Moreover, highly educated women are less likely to change jobs, whereas mothers are more prone to leaving their jobs and encountering challenges during job transitions. A high household income from husbands contributes to financial stability, which in turn encourages wives to continue working in non-regular positions. Enrollment in employment insurance increases the probability of obtaining full-time employment by 3.5 times. In addition, women who receive on-the-job training are 1.7 times more likely to change jobs and 2.7 times more likely to shift into non-regular employment. Finally, while formal education contributes to long-term career development, activities such as reading and online research enhance the acquisition of practical skills and support job transitions. These findings underscore the need to reexamine the evaluation of women’s professional competencies and to enhance career support measures for married women.