Family and Work As Relational Systems: An Exploration of Tensions and Interconnections

The capitalist economy, denoted by the distinction of the labour sphere from the family sphere (Barbera & Pais, 2020), characterizes the Anthropocene. However, despite the differences due to the nature of the two mentioned spheres, a strong interconnection and interdependence between them is evident.

This theoretical contribution aims to reflect on the encounter of these two systems in contemporary society, focusing in particular on family businesses and informal care relationships; assuming that it is necessary to rethink these situations from a sociological perspective, underlining their relational component.

The text explores the intersection of and the clash between market logics and family dynamics in these frameworks. It highlights the tension between rational economic considerations (remuneration, salaried work) (Pulcini and Bourgault, 2018), and the affective bonds within families which generates symbolic and educational codes denoted by the strength of emotions (Bianchi, 2021): affectivity, intergenerational solidarity, gift, trust, reciprocity (Donati, 2018, Ganugi & Prandini, 2022). The non-utilitarian logic nourish the bond between family members who feel part of the system through the mechanism of giving-receiving-reciprocating and tend to return what they have received on the basis of gratitude.

However, these emotional aspects, while crucial for family relationships, can also pose challenges for economic efficiency (Saraceno & Naldini, 2021) and generate problems of reconciliation, thus influencing the labour market (Mazzucchelli et al., 2020; Naldini & Saraceno, 2022).

In conclusion, this contribution highlights how the interdependence and interconnection between family and work is a fundamental element of contemporary society and can be problematic due to the substantial differences between the two systems, furthermore it provides food for thought for analysing phenomena and situations that characterize the Anthropocene society through a sociological reading.