Current Issues Faced by Women in the Workforce

Current Issues Faced by Women in the Workforce

A variety of factors continue to negatively affect women in the workforce.  These factors are culturally ingrained societal beliefs that have slowly evolved over time, but continue to fall short of equality.  Individual and societal views about appropriate occupations for males and females perpetuates the issue of gender stereotyping (Zunker, 2016).  Social theorists point out the effects of gender socialization on women, and view its influence as partly responsible for a higher proportion of females in certain professions, i.e. teaching and nursing (Pässler, Beinicke, & Hell, 2014). Women are often expected to work and play a major role in childrearing and homemaking functions, and as a result may experience extreme fatigue and burnout.   Though much progress has been made, sexual harassment and income inequality continue to prevail, negatively impacting women in the workforce.

Additional Issues Faced by Native Americans

The Native American population presents with unique issues related to their participation in the workforce.  Native Americans who reside on reservations are often physically isolated in remote areas, with few local vocational opportunities.  Due to years of racial oppression, many Native Americans lack confidence in their abilities, have low vocational expectations, and underestimate their skills and abilities (Flynn, Duncan, & Evenson, 2013).  English as a second language could present a barrier for Native Americans whose traditional language is their primary language.  Due to the importance of wakes, rituals, and celebrations in Native American culture, tribal members may place more importance in these events than in adhering to Euro-American work structure or schedule.  Additionally, collectivistic family needs tend to trump other individual responsibilities, making flexibility in the work place important for Native Americans.   

Strategies for Reducing the Negative Impact of These Issues

Several strategies could be incorporated to aid in the reduction of the negative impacts of culture and gender.  Professionals must constantly en .