An Investigation into the Group Characteristics of Nannies

Abstract

Nannies are an important group of the casual workers studied. In this article, six characteristics of the group are analyzed: the nature of their work and the personality characteristics of nannies; their age structure; reasons for working; marriage and family dynamics; their relationships with their employers; and their social networks. Analysis is by means of oral interviews with nannies in Guangzhou and Shenzhen. The gender aggregation effect salient among nannies means that they are a purely female vocational group which increases the group's vulnerabilities and weaknesses.