Comprehensive Study on Gender Discrimination Against Female Physicians and its Impact on Healthcare

Hlavacková, Klára

4. term

Culture, Communication and Globalization, Master

2023

2023-09-15

76 pages

This study investigates the existence of gender discrimination against female physicians. With the increase of feminisation, it is relevant to explore why it is perceived as negative. Gender discrimination is explored in its different forms, such as opportunities to develop professionally and sexual harassment. Gender relations impact the distribution of power imprinted in all structures. The study, therefore, focuses on three levels, which can be reflected in the power distribution based on gender, individual, interpersonal, and institutional. Further, the impact of gender-based discrimination and gender bias on the motivation of young female physicians. This research employed mixed methods combining the use of qualitative and quantitative data that are set in socio-cultural context of the Czech Republic. Quantitative data revealed that young female physicians often experience gender-based discrimination in employment, opportunities, wages, and respect. The study found that 22.76 % of female physicians experienced sexual harassment. Through the feminist theory the unequal gender relations were set in a socio-cultural context that illustrated the subordinate position of women. The study explored the impact of gender discrimination on young female physicians on their aspirations to pursue leadership positions. The obtained data provide insight into gender discrimination and the aspirations of female physicians; however, the qualitative data could not prove causality. The assessed questionnaire can provide a useful tool for future studying of such issues, also allowing to see a change in the motivation among young female physicians.

gender discrimination ; young female physicians ; discrimination against female physicians

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