Critical Review of Occupational Segregation by Sex

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Summary Occupational segregation by sex is very common in all industrialized societies. It is known as the division of labor, in terms of paid employment. As a result men and women are categorized into different types of occupational roles and tasks. This can be seen and present in all countries which are economically or politically organized (Anker, 1998). There are many theories to explain the existence of gender division in employment. Underpinning explanation of gender segregation in the labor market are issues concerning male power and gender assumptions of the division of labor (Bagilhole, 1994; Crompton, 1999). Gender segregation in employment is of concern for two measures quite aside from the facts of quality of opportunity: segregation into different areas of work remains a key issue that contributes to the gender in earnings (Forth, 2002). Later, the studies focus on the issue of masculinity which has been a re-occurrent topic in most debates. Masculinity is a subjective term, and in most cases it is influenced by one's perception and culture (Cullins, V.2012). According to Connell (1995), Masculinity can be interpreted as a choice in which one is made in respect of dressing, behavior, and physical appearance. This essay will critically examine masculinities as it relates to men's labor perception and his work environment based on the findings of Simon Cross and Barbara Bagilhole. This paper will explore the statutes of men in non-traditional male occupations e.g. (childcare providers, nurses, hair dressers) and will also examine the impact of these “feminine” occupations in men's manhood and how these men view their masculinity as they are doing what is generally regarded as “women's work”. Research Methods In order to study the perceptions and experiences of British men working in non-traditional jobs, the researcher has selected a total of
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