Work

Gender choice at work

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This paper analyzes the demand based causes of gender discrimination in the labor market and it aims to explain the currently existing gender gaps in terms of labor market participation and labor income. I propose a formal model to analyze the gender discrimination that individuals face at work due to statistical discrimination and taste-based discrimination. I study the effects of discrimination on the labor market participation, income, and utility distributions and compare these effects between the female and male sectors of the society. I show that the conditions that dissipate the gender gaps are also good to improve efficiency. However, in order to reach a first best it is necessary to eliminate all kinds of gender related idiosyncratic preferences that are based on stereotypes and conscious and unconscious biases.

Source: Economic Analysis and Policy

DOI: 10.1016/j.eap.2025.12.018

Author: Enriqueta Aragones

Language: English

Topic: Gender, Labor, and Family Dynamics

Subfield: Gender Studies

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

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

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $2,890

Funders: Ministerio de Ciencia, Innovación y Universidades, Generalitat de Catalunya, European Regional Development Fund