Document Type
Thesis
Date of Award
5-31-1990
Degree Name
Master of Science in Management - (M.S.)
Department
Organizational and Social Sciences
First Advisor
Gerald Melnick
Abstract
The thesis examines the status of women in the labor force from the economic and sociological point of view. It explores both the occupational segregation and the differences in earnings.
None of the existing theories provides a sufficient explanation either of the causes of the problems, or of the effects of women's position in the labor force. Each study has its limitations.
The previous studies failed to predict the dynamic effects of the changes that rapidly take place in the business environment and the increasing demand for highly qualified and experienced professionals. These changes facilitated women's entrance to top-management positions and have proven to be stronger than the forces that impose limitations to women's advancement. Biased practices, statistical discrimination and stereotyping are gradually diminishing at the higher organizational levels making it much more possible for women to succeed. The current trends prove that perceived sex differences are in fact individual differences and that women can acquire abilities that were considered male-dominated when it is necessary. Although the changes have not contributed in eliminating exclusionary patterns at all levels of the hierarchy, they allowed me to conclude that at this point, the eradication of external barriers that have restricted women's opportunities will come with the help of the organizations.
Recommended Citation
Papageorgiou, Despina, "Towards an understanding of women's status in the labor force" (1990). Theses. 2887.
https://digitalcommons.njit.edu/theses/2887
