The Perceptions of Good Jobs study has been conducted in order to better understand and explain how jobs are perceived in a number of selected countries. The report is primarily targeted to provide inputs towards the WDR 2013 and is part of a series of studies conducted on perceptions of good jobs in four countries: Colombia, China, Egypt and Sierra Leone. The main emphasis has been to explore the nature of jobs that affect living standards and enhance social cohesion. The report addresses the following research questions:
- What are the most important factors affecting labor force participation?
- What are the relations between jobs and household wealth?
- Can perceptions and stereotyping of jobs be regarded as constraints for job creation?
- What are the linkages between job benefits and job stability?
- What are the determinants of job satisfaction?
- Jobs can be evaluated using a human empowerment perspective by focusing on three features of a job: cognitive, creative and autonomous activities. What is the relationship between job status and human empowerment?
- Does inclusion in the labor force contribute to increased social trust and confidence in institutions?
This study is conducted in the Jianyang in Sichuan Province, China. Jianyang is located in the center area of Sichuan Province, which is one of the 23 provinces in Western China1. Jianyang consists of 26 towns, 29 townships and 797 villages, with a population of around 1.5 million people.