HOW DID THIS HAPPEN?

The Qualification Gap

According to data from Statbel and the OECD, the gap in higher education has grown significantly in recent decades. In the 25-34 age group in Belgium, more than 55% of women now have a higher education qualification, compared to around 40% of men. The result: for women who adhere to hypergamy (a partner with at least an equivalent level of education), the pool has simply become too small. There is a structural “surplus” of highly educated women versus a “shortage” of highly educated men.

Hypogamy

This forces women to make a choice: remain single longer (consciously or unconsciously) or opt for hypogamy (a partner with a lower level of education). But this also gives rise to a fascinating psychological phenomenon.

Gender Display

Research (including from Stockholm University and sociologist Bertrand) shows that when a woman earns more or is more highly educated than her male partner, she is more likely to do more of the housework.  Sociologists refer to this as “gender display”. In order not to undermine her partner’s (traditional) masculinity, the woman apparently compensates for her professional success by taking on more household tasks at home.

Sources: Statbel (2025): Official Belgian figures on the growing degree gap (55% women vs 40% men).

Steiber, N. & Siegert, C. (2026): Recent research in the European Sociological Review on the division of tasks within “hypogamous” relationships.
OECD (2025): Report on the structural demographic mismatch in the European labour and relationship market.
Bertrand et al.: Scientific research into “Gender Identity” and the compensatory behaviour of successful women in the household.

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About Jade & Jules

Jade & Jules, founded by Annemieke Dubois, is an exclusive relationship agency for financially independent singles, such as entrepreneurs and business executives, looking for a serious and lasting relationship. With a growing network in Flanders, Wallonia and Brussels, Jade & Jules sets a new quality standard in matchmaking.
In Flanders, the team of experienced matchmakers Annemieke, Veronique and Nathalie are at your service, in Brussels and Wallonia, you can reach out to Sigrid.