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The relationship between gender stereotypes and job satisfaction among female employees: the role of years of education and subjective well-being

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Based on the data of 2020 China Family Panel Studies (CFPS), this paper explores the relationship between gender stereotypes and job satisfaction among 2501 female employees from the perspective of social role theory. Additionally, it examines the mediating role of subjective well-being and the moderating effect of years of education. The results indicate that gender stereotypes among female employees have a negative predictive effect on job satisfaction. Subjective well-being mediates the relationship between gender stereotypes and job satisfaction and the mediating effect of subjective well-being is moderated by years of education. Specifically, compared to female employees with lower years of education, those with higher years of education exhibit a stronger positive predictive effect of subjective well-being on their job satisfaction. Therefore, on the path towards gender equality and female career development, it is necessary to comprehensively consider various factors such as improving the workplace environment, enhancing the impact of education, implementing mental health interventions, and fostering a sense of self-awareness, in order to achieve a substantial improvement in female employees’ job satisfaction.

Source: Humanities and Social Sciences Communications

DOI: 10.1057/s41599-025-06181-0

Authors: Youlai Zeng, Lilan Zhu, Qianqian Kang, Shuping Yang

Institution: Liaoning Normal University

Language: English

Topic: Job Satisfaction and Organizational Behavior

Subfield: Organizational Behavior and Human Resource Management

Field: Business, Management and Accounting

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Decent work and economic growth, Reduced inequalities, Gender equality

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,890