Workplace Gender Discrimination is Still Rife, According to a Recent Study

Over the decades, there has been widespread gender discrimination in the workplace. According to a recent study, a large number of young women still experience job insecurity, sexual harassment, and low pay compared to their male peers. About 23% (a quarter) of females who fall under the age group of 16 years to 30 years have suffered some form of sexual harassment at the workplace. The results associated with the poll for the Young Women’s Trust suggest that only 8% of these victims have reported these issues.

Discrimination is still rife

One of the top reasons women failed to report instances of workplace sexual harassment is fear of losing their current employment rank or being assigned fewer tasks (hours). Others didn’t know the correct procedure of filing a complaint. The findings revealed in the Young Women’s Trust report indicate that there’s still gender discrimination in New Jersey and across the US. It does seem to be a common occurrence throughout the process of employment.

The numbers confirm it

Nearly a third (about 31 percent) of young ladies reported instances of sex discrimination while they were looking for a job or working. Beyond that, one in every five women said that they’re paid less compared to their male peers for similar or same job description or duties. 43 percent of young mothers reported that they had experienced some form of maternity discrimination.

The overall impact of workplace gender discrimination is fully highlighted by the 52 percent of young females who said that their current job had a negative effect on their mental health. Only 42 percent of men reported such issues. According to Dr. Carole Easton, the Young Women’s Trust’s chief executive, young females’ treatment at the workplace, pay, and even the overall wellbeing appear to be trailing far behind those of young men.

Something needs to be done

Dr. Easton asserted that if 2018 was to be the turning point for females’ equality rather than a mere footnote in history, it is clear that something needs to be done, not just words. Easton expressed impatience for change and pointed out the achievements made over the last 100 years aren’t enough.

“A concerted effort is required from employers and governments to offer the young generation security and hope for a better future, address workplace gender inequality, and help manage the increasing instances of mental health issues among the young generation,” concluded Easton.

Sure, governments and non-government organizations globally have been tackling burning gender discrimination and injustices, including workplace sexual harassment and the gender pay gap. They have introduced regulations that require employers to publish pay gap data – a universal credit geared towards making sure that both men and women who intend to work are assured of flexible support they need to enter work for the first time or return to work. Besides, these efforts are also intended to see over 60% of people benefit from the national living wage for females. Despite these measures, gender discrimination in the workplace is still rife and still calls for attention.

This article does not necessarily reflect the opinions of the editors or management of EconoTimes.