In some professions, women have become well represented, yet gender bias persists-Perpetuated by those who think it is not happening

Sci Adv. 2020 Jun 26;6(26):eaba7814. doi: 10.1126/sciadv.aba7814. eCollection 2020 Jun.

Abstract

In efforts to promote equality and combat gender bias, traditionally male-occupied professions are investing resources into hiring more women. Looking forward, if women do become well represented in a profession, does this mean equality has been achieved? Are issues of bias resolved? Two studies including a randomized double-blind experiment demonstrate that biases persist even when women become well represented (evinced in veterinary medicine). Evidence included managers evaluating an employee randomly assigned a male (versus female) name as more competent and advising a $3475.00 higher salary, equating to an 8% pay gap. Importantly, those who thought bias was not happening in their field were the key drivers of it-a "high risk" group (including men and women) that, as shown, can be readily identified/assessed. Thus, as other professions make gains in women's representation, it is vital to recognize that discrimination can persist-perpetuated by those who think it is not happening.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't