In the early years of Japan’s modernization, government officials emphasized the role of mothers in instilling modern values of nationhood and education. During this period, the middle class was defined as families in which only the man worked, and the woman remained a full-time homemaker. However, later this meaning began to change, and women increasingly went to work and left home affairs. The middle class became the backbone of the economy, since almost everyone worked in factories.
During Japan’s era of rapid economic growth, the middle class accounted for a large share of society. Since this term included all people who worked, the concept of a woman’s role began to change during this period. That is why, during the period of growth, women focused on both work and raising children. It could be argued that they engaged in some multitasking, as the expectations for women were double standards; the term middle class best described their work. In addition, the Incas became highly mobile and helped expand the concept and recognition of this class in Japanese society.
In the post-war period, a dramatic change in the concept of gender roles begins, as society rethinks the role of women. To achieve high growth, a woman who worked began to be considered equivalent to a man. Much more was expected of women, and in addition to being workers, they were also expected to maintain domestic order. In political narratives, the role of women in Japan’s economic situation was central, marking a turning point in the changing understanding of gender roles.
The main problem in promoting such a narrative was that young people in the post-war period and beyond began to make increasingly greater demands, which partially destroyed their own lives. High expectations persist, influencing expectations for young people, especially women. The problem was also the promotion of “free choice”, which was very rarely possible due to the goals set for women.