[Toivaluadiora]

Jitwadee sums it up all.

No, Thai women, whether they be living in the rural or urban areas are not expected to stay at home and look after the children.

There has been a phenomenon in regards to the rapid sociological change concerning this matter. Only 20-30 years ago, before the advent of influx of Thailand's rural people to the big cities, that 'yes' a woman's role could be said to be 'in the home'.

This was also normal for the original descendants of Chinese merchants who took over the country's trade.

Some people may argue that this change has also been due to the 'irresponsible' recent trend of Thailand's rural male population in regards to family duties - in comparison to the older generation of fathers/husbands of yesteryear. However, I haven't seen any reliable evidence to back up this allegation though!

For the educated urban middle-class, who are mainly of Chinese ancestory, the benefits they receive at work in an established company can be just as decent as anything you will come across in the western world.

Some of the packages they may offer include 2 months leave at full wage + 2 more at half salary thereafter etc......

Thais will aften tell you that governement officials/civils servants and the police/armed forces etc....get the best deal in concerns to 'paid leave'. Having a baby is no exception; everything is fully paid for, and i believe its three months leave.

Just as Jitwadee said, the modern trend is 'to have a baby and then let grandmother look after him until its time for him to go to school'


Notes: The male population are also given paid leave when they ordain as a monk for a short period.