The holding pattern of the worker Bs: How bifurcation of consciousness impacts female academic career progression

Document Type

Journal Article

Publication Title

Career Development International

Volume

29

Issue

5

First Page

593

Last Page

612

Publisher

Emerald

School

School of Business and Law

RAS ID

70329

Comments

Sharafizad, F., Brown, K., Jogulu, U., Omari, M., & Gander, M. (2024). The holding pattern of the worker Bs: how bifurcation of consciousness impacts female academic career progression. Career Development International, 29(5), 593-612. https://doi.org/10.1108/CDI-09-2023-0348

Abstract

Purpose: This paper examines an identified but unexplored career gap evidenced at a mid-level classification in the academic career path for women in Australia. This career-stalling effect or holding pattern, is examined to determine underlying causes of career trajectory interruption. Design/methodology/approach: Guided by the epistemological stance of standpoint theory, this exploratory abductive study employs a novel arts-based method, draw, write, reflect, to access experiences that may be difficult to convey verbally. The obtained drawings and reflections were thematically analysed. Findings: Drawing on Bourdieu’s concept of illusio this article finds support for female academics’ bifurcated consciousness. Results demonstrate how opposing social role prescriptions result in the deliberate avoidance of work-life conflict, a nuanced lack of confidence in work tasks in combination with other, often competing responsibilities, and the uneven distribution of administrative duties known as “academic housework”, which combine to stall careers. Female academics feel pressure to prioritise their domestic role and eschew career progression. Research limitations/implications: Despite the small sample size, the findings provide rich career narratives and experiences of female academics in Australia providing additional impetus for increased gender equity efforts. Originality/value: This study is the first to explore the previously unidentified holding pattern for female academics in Australia. Findings suggest there is a range of previously unexplored impediments resulting in a gendered stalling at a mid-level classification interrupting female academic career progression.

DOI

10.1108/CDI-09-2023-0348

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