In this pioneering work, Catherine Hakim presents the "Preference Theory, " a new, multi-disciplinary philosophy for explaining and predicting current and future patterns for women choosing between family work and outside employment. It is the first theory developed specifically to explain women's behavior and choices, constituting a major break from male-oriented theorizing in sociology and economics. In fact, this text identifies five major historical changes that are collectively producing a new scenario for women in prosperous, 21st century societies.