Industrial gender segregation

Date and country of first publication

2006
United States

Definition

Industrial gender segregation refers to the practice in which specific industries or occupations are dominated by either men or women, resulting in limited employment opportunities for the opposite gender. This phenomenon has historically been seen in various sectors, with women being concentrated in traditionally "female" jobs such as nursing, teaching, and administrative roles, while men dominate fields like engineering, construction, and technology.

The reasons for industrial gender segregation are multifaceted and can be attributed to various factors, including societal expectations, discrimination, and preconceived notions about gender roles. These factors often discourage individuals from pursuing careers that are perceived as "non-traditional" for their gender.

Gender segregation can have negative consequences for both genders. For women, it can result in limited access to higher-paying, male-dominated jobs, which can lead to lower wages and a perpetuation of the gender pay gap. Men, on the other hand, may face limited opportunities to enter traditionally female-dominated industries, which can restrict their career options and contribute to gender inequality.

Efforts to address industrial gender segregation involve challenging stereotypes and promoting gender diversity in all sectors. Encouraging girls and women to pursue STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) fields, for example, can help break down barriers and increase their representation in traditionally male-dominated industries. Similarly, promoting career opportunities and support for men in traditionally female-dominated industries can also help to reduce industrial gender segregation.

Overall, industrial gender segregation is a complex issue rooted in societal norms and expectations regarding gender roles. Addressing and dismantling these barriers is necessary for achieving true gender equality in the workforce.

Notes

At its current state, this definition has been generated by a Large Language Model (LLM) so far without review by an independent researcher or a member of the curating team of segregation experts that keep the Segregation Wiki online. While we strive for accuracy, we cannot guarantee its reliability, completeness and timeliness. Please use this content with caution and verify information as needed. Also, feel free to improve on the definition as you see fit, including the use of references and other informational resources. We value your input in enhancing the quality and accuracy of the definitions of segregation forms collectively offered in the Segregation Wiki ©.

Industrial Gender Segregation appears on the following literature

Budig M.J. (2006). Gender, self employment, and earnings: The interlocking structures of family and professional status. Gender and Society, 20(6), 725-753. SAGE Publications Inc..https://doi.org/10.1177/0891243206293232

Voormann R. (2009). Gender segregated labour markets in the Baltics: What are prevailing Similarities or differences?. Studies of Transition States and Societies, 1(1), 66-80. https://doi.org/

Bamberry L. (2016). Restructuring women’s work; labour market and household gender regimes in the Greater Latrobe Valley, Australia; [Restructurando el trabajo de las mujeres: regímenes de género en el mercado de trabajo y el hogar en el Greater Latrobe Valley, Australia]. Gender, Place and Culture, 23(8), 1135-1149. Routledge.https://doi.org/10.1080/0966369X.2015.1090408

Ham S. (2021). Explaining Gender Gaps in the South Korean Labor Market During the COVID 19 Pandemic. Feminist Economics, 27(1-2), 133-151. Routledge.https://doi.org/10.1080/13545701.2021.1876902

Stein J.A. (2021). Not Fitting the Pattern: Women in Industrial Craft. Palgrave Studies in Oral History, 159-190. Palgrave Macmillan.https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-87243-4_6