This textbook presents a comprehensive analysis of the enormous changes in women's economic lives around the world, from the family to the labor market. Hoffman and Averett examine a range of fascinating topics such the effect of rising women's wages and improved labor market opportunities on marriage, the ways in which more reliable contraception has shaped women's adult lives and careers, and forces behind the phenomenal rise in women's labor force activity. This fourth edition addresses important topics of discussion through brand new chapters on gender in economics and race and gender in the USA. It incorporates the latest research findings throughout, many of which are featured in helpful call-out boxes, and illustrated with new graphs and figures. This is invaluable reading for undergraduate and postgraduate students of economics, development and women's studies. The level of economic analysis is suitable for students with basic economics knowledge.