Studies consistently show men and women behave differently in the workplace. Men are more likely to take risks and ask for a raise, for example, while most research shows women are more likely to be team players.
But, there’s a good chance that many of those behavioral differences aren’t based on biological characteristics. Instead, it’s more likely that men and women may simply be behaving in accordance with society’s expectation of each gender role.
The Mars And Venus Debate
The Mars and Venus debate sparked by John Gray’s bestselling books have reinforced gender differences. Gray concluded that men and women perceive the world differently and as a result, have a lot difficulties communicating. Despite the overwhelming popularity of his ideas, widespread research debunks many of his claims.
Research conducted by psychologist Janet Shibley Hyde, Ph.D., discovered that males and females are more alike than different in terms of psychology. Hyde examined prior research, bestselling books, and popular magazine articles on gender differences.
Hyde concluded that men and women tend to fall into stereotypical patterns, not because of their biologically based differences, but instead because they believe reports that men and women are very different.
In studies where each individual’s gender was disguised, participants didn’t conform to stereotypes. In fact, Hyde found that they often behaved opposite to what was expected—women were more aggressive and men were more passive.
Hyde also points out how gender gaps open or close over time. Throughout the life span, gender differences seem to vary with age, further proving that the differences aren’t innate. Instead, she argues that the roles men and women play are heavily determined by the environment.
Boys And Girls Are Given Clear Messages
Boys and girls perform equally well in math until high school, at which time boys gain a slight advantage. This may be due to social expectations, rather than biology. For example, the original Teen Talk Barbie was pulled off the shelves because one of the things the doll said was, “Math is tough,” which further perpetuated the stereotype that girls can’t do math.
Parental expectations are often different for sons versus daughters. Hyde discovered that most parents have lower expectations for their daughter’s academic success. Her research found that parental expectations in math correlated strongly with a child’s performance.
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Combating Stereotypes In The Office
It’s likely that these stereotypes turn into self-fulfilling prophecies in the working world as well. A boss may incorrectly assume that a mother wouldn’t want a job that requires travel or there may be an assumption that women won’t be as aggressive in sales. Those small biases accumulate over time and they may have a negative impact on a female’s career path.
Research shows that both men and women tend to prefer male bosses. A Gallup poll of 1,032 adults found that 33% prefer a male boss, versus 20% who prefer a female boss (and 46% had no preference). It’s quite possible that the negative perception of women in business perpetuates the idea that male bosses are better.
Simply being aware of gender stereotypes can be a step in the right direction. Creating more objective performance review standards can also help ensure the best people are being promoted, regardless of their gender.
Finally, keep in mind that gender stereotypes hurt the entire organization. If talented women aren’t given opportunities to use their talents, you may struggle to remain competitive.
Amy Morin is a speaker, psychotherapist, and author of the bestselling book 13 Things Mentally Strong People Don't Do.
