Abstract View
Article Title:
WHAT A MAN CAN DO, A WOMAN CAN DO BETTER: INVESTIGATING GENDER STEREOTYPE IN THE WORKPLACE
| Abstract: Gender and behaviour patterns are fundamental cultural criteria in categorizing the human species. Under-valuing the potential and capabilities of workers as a result of gender stereotype has serious consequences for an organisation. The main purpose of the study was to gain a better understanding of the theoretical and empirical effect of gender stereotype on employees’ performance, with focus on selected industries in Nigeria. The study was anchored on social role theory and role congruity theory. The study adopted a mixed research paradigm of qualitative and quantitative methods to gain a more robust investigation into gender stereotyping in the Nigerian work environment. Aresponse sample of 270 employees from 10 industries participated in the study with 10 female executive women amongst them answering the interview question on perception of their career paths as it relates to gender in their organisations. Stratified random sampling and convenience sampling techniques guided the sampling procedure. Narrative analysis and two sample t-test were used for the data analyses. The results revealed some complaints of gender discrimination and intimidation in the workplace and a significant effect of gender stereotype on employee performance. The study recommended that a strong policy against gender discrimination should be in place in organisations, to create and maintain a work environment with equal treatment for all employees irrespective of their gender. The study has implications for management, employees and the society at large. The reading public will become more aware of the effects of gender stereotyping on poverty, income inequality, injustice and underdevelopment of the society. |
| Keywords: Gender Stereotype, Discrimination, Culture, Performance, Nigeria |
| Download full paper |
JOURNAL COVER
