The literature is still sparse on multidisciplinary approaches to health and organizational outcomes of women's experience in the workplace (gender bias, discrimination, and incompatibility between family and work responsibilities). This project seeks to bridge disciplinary barriers and to compile findings from disparate methodologies (community psychology, regional economics, epidemiology, ergonomics) to explore links among 1) gender-based discrimination and sexual harassment (blatant, subtle, or covert); 2) stress and adverse health outcomes for women; and 3) organizational outcomes and costs. We propose an integrated model of discrimination and harassment, organizational factors that facilitate or constrain effective diversity in the workplace, and the relationship between stress, health, and workplace outcomes, including financial costs to employers and employees. A pilot study is underway among employees of Univ. Mass. Lowell to test selected components of the theoretical model. The target population comprises about 500 employees in administrative, clerical, custodial, and security positions. The questionnaire includes items from validated survey instruments such as the Karasek-Theorell Job Content Questionnaire, the Riger and Stokes Work Environment Scale, the Mental Health Index, and the SF-12. New items have also been developed, as needed, to cover experience of occupational racial or ethnic discrimination and work environment factors with a likely disparate impact on women. The results will be compiled in spring of 2000 for presentation. The long-term goal is to generate findings that can be translated into action recommendations and inform strategies for positive change in women's working conditions.
Learning Objectives: Participants will be able to discuss the potential effects of job segregation, discrimination, gender bias in workgroup dynamics, and work-family conflicts on the health and workplace participation of women workers
Keywords: Women's Health, Occupational Health
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.