Economic theories of occupational segregation by sex

Abstract

"The fact that the incresing force participation of women has not led to an integration of men and women in occupation is considered something of a paradox. <br> This paper surveys economic theories of occupational segregation, focusing on the mechanisms of change in occupational segregation, in particular on the relationship between changing labour force participation, changing wage differentials by sex and occupational segregation. It is found that from the point of view of economic theory it is quite reasonable to expect stable, or even increasing, occupational segregation, as the labour force participation rates of women are rising and wage differentials by gender are falling. If this is the correct empirical relationship it has important policy implications. As we are striving for an increased participation of women in the labour force, reduced wage differentials and occupational integration, we may be trying to reach goals that are, at least temporarily, incompatible. <br> The paper further argues that work in the home as an occupation must be given a more integrated role in empirical as well as theoretical work, if we are not to misinterpret changes in occupational segregation in periods of rising labour force participation." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku) ((en))

Cite article

Jonung, C. (1996): Economic theories of occupational segregation by sex. Implications for change over time. In: P. Beckmann (Hrsg.) (1996): Gender specific occupational segregation (Beiträge zur Arbeitsmarkt- und Berufsforschung, 188), p. 16-54.