Sexism: definitions, manifestations, and social impacts

Sexism

Maltby Lauren E., Elizabeth Lewis, and Tamara Anderson. "Women and Work: Supporting Female Colleagues in Psychology." Journal of Psychology and Christianity, 28.3 (2009): 72-79. Print.

In this particular article, the authors revisit the subject of gender discrimination and the various obstacles working class women face. In so doing, they also highlight the plight of working mothers. In their own words, sexism or "gender discrimination occurs whenever a person or persons are put at a disadvantage compared to other groups because of their gender." In that regard therefore, sexism could include gender and sexual harassment, discriminatory hiring (and firing) decisions, etc.

According to the authors, sexism is a common phenomenon in many places of work. Indeed, many women as the authors point out report discriminatory practices against them and many other structural obstacles in their places of work. Some of those giving their views on this particular topic cite a wide range of sexist attitudes mostly from their male colleagues. Given that a bulk of this article focuses on the psychology field, one cannot help but conclude that sexism is a concern that cuts across all professions.

Spangler, Melanie A., Margaret Britt, and Tomas H. Parks. "Wal-Mart and Women: Good Business Practice or Gamesmanship?" Journal of Applied Management and Entrepreneurship, 13.2. (2008). Print.

This particular article largely concerns itself with the nature of sexism in the workplace. In so doing, it largely focuses on Wal-Mart Stores -- the nation's leading employer. The authors of this particular article also conduct literature review with an aim of identifying the nature and conduct of gender discrimination in most places of work. Being the nation's largest employer, Wal-Mart's treatment of its employees can be regarded a fair representation of most companies' employment policy.

In the infamous Wal-Mart v. Dukes case, the retailer was sued by its female employees (present and past) for what they termed gender discrimination in not only pay but also promotion policies. Duke was in this case the lead plaintiff. According to the authors of this particular article, previous studies have clearly indicated that sexism is widespread in most places of work. Indeed, in the words of the authors, according to a previous study, "formal organizations use demographics such as age, race, and gender, etc. In hiring and promotional decisions."

Nadler, Joel T. And Margaret Stockdale. "Workplace Gender Bias: Not Just Between Strangers." North American Journal of Psychology, 14.2. (2012). Print.

This article seeks to advance the view that at the workplace, women are the most disadvantaged employees. The authors also explore the various reasons as to why women are still disadvantaged in this day and age. They conclude that there is sufficient evidence linking discrimination and prejudice to sex role stereotypes. In that regard therefore, it is the said stereotypes that must be addressed to rein in sexism in the workplace.