Women in Law and Legislation
Disciplines
Gender, Race, Sexuality, and Ethnicity in Communication | Law and Gender
Abstract (300 words maximum)
Gender inequality in the workplace is a pervasive issue that has received significant attention in recent years. Despite progress in increasing female representation in many professional fields, women continue to be underrepresented in positions of power and leadership. This is particularly evident in the lobbying industry, where historically, women have held and continue to hold lower positions than their male counterparts. This study explores a possible explanation for this in American society by examining qualitative data from peer-reviewed journals and interviews. Delving into research that examines characteristics of male and female lobbyists suggests that gender bias is a significant factor contributing to the underrepresentation of women in high-level lobbying positions. Female lobbyists reported feeling pressure to conform to gender stereotypes, such as being expected to prioritize family responsibilities over their careers. Historically, women are known to be “caretakers.” Research suggests that this stereotype, alongside others, is a root cause for women to lack specific characteristics that male lobbyists possess and utilize. This study will identify specific traits that differentiate men and women and aims to correlate these traits with common stereotypes in American society.
Academic department under which the project should be listed
RCHSS - Communication & Media
Primary Investigator (PI) Name
Robin Mathis
Women in Law and Legislation
Gender inequality in the workplace is a pervasive issue that has received significant attention in recent years. Despite progress in increasing female representation in many professional fields, women continue to be underrepresented in positions of power and leadership. This is particularly evident in the lobbying industry, where historically, women have held and continue to hold lower positions than their male counterparts. This study explores a possible explanation for this in American society by examining qualitative data from peer-reviewed journals and interviews. Delving into research that examines characteristics of male and female lobbyists suggests that gender bias is a significant factor contributing to the underrepresentation of women in high-level lobbying positions. Female lobbyists reported feeling pressure to conform to gender stereotypes, such as being expected to prioritize family responsibilities over their careers. Historically, women are known to be “caretakers.” Research suggests that this stereotype, alongside others, is a root cause for women to lack specific characteristics that male lobbyists possess and utilize. This study will identify specific traits that differentiate men and women and aims to correlate these traits with common stereotypes in American society.