Gender Inequality In The Workplace
As society grows and progresses, we’re seeing more female representation in previously male-dominated industries. This includes construction, engineering and architecture. However, despite the increase in gross monthly income for working women in Singapore, many still feel that gender inequality in the workplace persists till today.
In a survey conducted by YouGov, 7 in 10 women have experienced unequal treatment at work. From the type of job industry to age brackets, read on to find out who are the most affected in Singapore.
Job industry
Image courtesy of YouGov
Despite 70% of women agreeing that gender inequality exists in the workplace, only 55% of men agree with this statement. Though the number is lower, it’s still a pretty high statistic, considering it’s more than half of the men surveyed.
This is especially prominent for women who are working in the construction sector, with 82% of them agreeing. Admittedly, it doesn’t come off as a big surprise. Most of the time when we think of construction, society has ingrained this image of a strong, muscular man to do the job.
Further statistics where inequality exists are for women in engineering, design or architecture with 77%, followed by health or medical services at 77% as well.
In 2020, Singaporean women showed the true meaning of girl power with a 24% increase of female engineers in the Land Transport Authority. Compared to 2009 with a 0% increase, it’s safe to say that we’ve definitely come a long way.
Yet, women continue to be treated as lesser than their male counterparts. While we’ve progressed, it’s obvious that we can do so much more to bridge this gap between the genders.
Age
Image courtesy of YouGov
YouGov also broke their survey results down based on the age range of women. They found that 74% of young women aged 18 to 24 are likely to say there is gender disparity at work.
While it’s easy to assume they might not have enough working experience, women above the age of 55 consist of 25% retired, 23% working part time and 7% not working. This means that older women contribute to fewer workplace interactions.
Plus, it’s clear to see that the world is growing and new jobs are constantly emerging. Especially in 2022, boomers and Gen Zs do not have the same working experiences anymore.
Whether it’s unequal pay or being treated unfairly, workplace gender inequality has resulted in many females facing imposter syndrome. We hate to see it in this century still, but thinking that females “aren’t good enough” stems from a long existing subconscious of patriarchy.
These profiles from YouGov are based on continuously collected data, which means they are nationally representative regardless of education, region and race.
These Survey Results Show That Gender Inequality Still Exists In The Workplace Despite Progression
More people are being made aware of gender inequality still existing in the workplace today. Hopefully, this means that Singaporeans can strive towards improving the work environment for women, no matter what industry they work in, even if it continues to be male-dominated.
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