As the hourly wage rate increases, the individual at first chooses to work more hours the supply curve for labour is normally shaped (AB) (see Figure 13.4). After a certain point, however, the supply curve bends backwards on itself indicating that fewer hours are worked (BC). This is because the individual is choosing leisure time rather than work. The individual will not necessarily be experiencing a drop in income since the lower number of hours worked might be compensated by a higher hourly wage rate. As income levels in an economy increase, there is generally an increase in the demand for leisure. Except for the self-employed, however, there are not many jobs where individuals have complete control over the number of hours worked. The majority work contractual hours which are determined by employers, possibly in conjunction with trade unions.